Motorcyclists found a lost 14-year-old hunter near Jubilee Lake and the Walla Walla River on Saturday after he’d been separated from his father.
At about 2 p.m. on Saturday, Vern McKay reported his son was missing. The two had been hunting in the area since 10 a.m. The son, Tyler McKay had hiked to the top of a steep ridge about 1,000 yards away and became disoriented. The father located a group of hunters who contacted the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office for help. A search and rescue team searched the area for about four hours into nightfall when they received word that the boy had arrived safely at a residence near Harris Park.
Tyler McKay reported he realized he was lost after he reached the top of the ridge and continued hiking by following elk tracks to the Walla Walla River. While walking along the river trail, he came across group of motorcyclists and told them he was lost. The motorcyclists gave Tyler a ride to nearby residence and dropped him off.
Sgt. Dwight Johnson estimated that Tyler hiked approximately seven miles before he was picked up, including down a steep canyon with a descent of about 5,000 feet. He noted that Tyler was dressed in only jeans and a shirt with no food, water or survival gear.
“We are thankful that Tyler was safe and uninjured – except for some blisters on his feet,” said Umatilla County Sheriff Terry Rowan
The Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone who goes into the woods to be prepared, always expect the unexpected even for a short trip. Be oriented to the area, have a map, compass, food and water, and basic survival gear that would allow you to survive overnight. If you become lost, stay put.
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