Missing Boy Scouts Found Alive
Four missing Boy Scouts and their leader were found alive in the Lake Mead National Recreational Area, in Nevada. A sixth member of the group, Clawson Bowman Jr., suffered an apparent heat stroke and died.
Temperatures reached 110 degrees over the weekend. However, the group of scouts continued with their planned hike. At around 1 pm, the group realized they were terribly lost and suffering in the heat. Using a cell phone, the group contacted authorities in Las Vegas for help.
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the group maintained contact with authorities throughout the search. They were unable to determine their exact location. However, by describing the landscape and landmarks they were eventually located.
Officials with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police department found the missing Boy Scouts close to the Arizona-Nevada border near the White Rock canyon. Four boys and one of their leaders were found safe, but suffering from heat related illness.
One of the leaders died as a result of the intense heat. The Mohave County Medical Examiner will be conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of 69-year-old man’s death.
The surviving leader and four boys were treated on scene and taken to a local hospital for follow-up. The leader was reportedly suffering a heat stroke.
As reported by 8 News Now, dozens of rescuers responded to the area, including representatives from AMR River Medical, Lake Mohave Ranchos Fire District, and the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office.
A spokeswoman from the national park credits not only the rescue team, but the missing Boy Scouts themselves. Christie Vanover is thankful that five hikers were found alive:
“with the support of around 30 first responders, the others were safely rescued. The boys were very brave this afternoon as they tried to explain their location to our dispatchers.”
Speaking on behalf of the park, Vanover also expressed sympathy for the family of Mr, Bowman.
As temperatures continued above 100 degrees throughout the weekend, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area remained under an “excessive heat warning.” Hiking is discouraged in the area when the temperature reaches dangerous levels.
Four missing Boy Scouts and one of their leaders were found alive and rescued. However, one man lost his life in the deadly heat. The efforts of local authorities along with the bravery of the boys helped them survive a very frightening and exhausting afternoon.
