Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports the search for the missing climber on Mount Jefferson has been suspended. A significant amount of resources have tirelessly worked to locate Steven Van Pelt, 33, of Salem who fell last Friday while descending Mount Jefferson.
Resources, to include six mountain rescue teams, took great risk searching for Van Pelt over the last several days among the extreme mountainous terrain with glacier drifts, falling rocks and debris. Resources have been exhausted and the risk of continuing would jeopardize additional lives. Linn County Sheriff’s Office have been in close contact with Van Pelt’s family who are aware of the decision.
Linn County Sheriff’s Office were assisted by Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Corvallis Mountain Rescue, Eugene Mountain Rescue, Deschutes Mountain Rescue, Portland Mountain Rescue, Hood River Mountain Rescue, Oregon Emergency Management, United States Army National Guard, Air Force Reserve (304th), LifeFlight, Idanha Fire Department, Detroit Fire Department, Amateur Radio Emergency Services and United States Forest Service.