Experienced Hunters Found Dead After Mysterious Disappearance in Rio Grande National Forest
A routine hunting trip in southern Colorado turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when two 25-year-old seasoned hunters vanished in the vast wilderness of the Rio Grande National Forest. The men’s disappearance sparked an intensive search that ended nearly a week later with the grim discovery of their bodies under unclear circumstances.
Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko, both experienced outdoorsmen, were last heard from on the afternoon of September 11 during an elk hunting expedition. Porter had been updating his fiancée, Bridget Murphy, with his location, but contact abruptly ceased, prompting immediate alarm.
Authorities launched a search two days later after finding the hunters’ vehicle parked at the trailhead, along with their hiking gear left behind. Inclement weather at the time heightened concerns for their safety. Murphy described both men as well-prepared but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding what might have gone wrong. “It depends on if they were in sound mind, if they were disoriented or panicked, or if they were already hypothermic. We’re just not sure,” she said.
Tragically, on September 18, Conejos County Search and Rescue teams located the bodies near the Rio de Los Pinos Trailhead. The Conejos County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery at approximately 11 a.m., with family members identifying Porter and Stasko.
A GoFundMe update from Porter’s aunt, Lynne Runkle, expressed the family’s grief: “It is with a broken heart and through tears that I give you this update. Andrew and Ian have both been found deceased. Please keep their families in your thoughts and prayers.”
At this stage, the cause of death remains unknown. Conejos County Coroner Richard Martin told ABC Denver 7, “There were no visible injuries on the bodies, nor were there any initial signs of foul play.” The investigation continues as authorities work to understand the tragic events.
🔹 Conclusion
The sudden and unexplained loss of Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko highlights the inherent dangers of the wilderness, even for those with extensive outdoor experience. The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, serving as a solemn reminder of nature’s unpredictability. While families grieve, investigations aim to bring clarity to this heartbreaking mystery.