After being missing for over two weeks, an experienced hiker was discovered deceased in California's Yosemite National Park. Kirk S. Thomas-Olsen, 61, was discovered on September 14 in the Ostrander Lake Area, where he had planned to backpack.
Experienced hiker Kirk S. Thomas-Olsen, 61, was found deceased in Yosemite National Park, California, after being missing for more than two weeks. Thomas-Olsen had planned to backpack in the Ostrander Lake Area from August 23 to 27 but vanished without a trace.
The National Park Service launched a search operation after his vehicle was discovered with a note indicating his return date had passed. His niece, Holly Leeson, reached out to the public via Facebook, describing him as an "experienced hiker and former park ranger."
Experienced Hiker Found Dead in Yosemite National Park After Weeks-Long Search
The hike to Ostrander Lake is described as "strenuous," covering 11.4 miles round-trip with 1,500 feet of elevation gain. Rangers initiated the search after noticing Thomas-Olsen's car note and realizing he had not returned as planned.
In Yosemite National Park, unintentional deaths are primarily attributed to motor vehicle accidents, drownings, and falls. According to the National Park Service's mortality data from 2014 to 2019, half of all reported deaths in national parks result from unintentional causes.
Experienced Hiker Found Dead in Yosemite National Park After Weeks-Long Search
The park has recorded 98 fatalities during that period, with "unintentional death" defined as occurring without intent to self-harm or harm others. It typically involves damage to the body due to exposure to kinetic, thermal, electrical, or chemical energy or a lack of essentials like heat or oxygen.
Leeson updated the Yosemite Tourist Information Facebook page after her uncle's body was discovered. She expressed gratitude for the search efforts and acknowledged the inherent risks associated with solo hiking.
Experienced Hiker Found Dead in Yosemite National Park After Weeks-Long Search
The National Park Service has not yet determined the cause of death or provided additional information regarding Thomas-Olsen's case.
Thomas-Olsen was an experienced hiker who had previously worked for the California State Parks agency for ten years. He had also worked in three national parks and two zoos.
Experienced Hiker Found Dead in Yosemite National Park After Weeks-Long Search
The Yosemite National Park Service reminds hikers to take precautions, including informing someone of their itinerary, carrying appropriate gear, and being aware of potential hazards.
