Hiker lost in Oregon wilderness found

By Dean Murray

A hiker lost for five days in the wilderness has been found.

Gabriel Vaughn, 25, left his group on Monday, Feb. 16, to go hiking in the woods during a rafting trip on Oregon’s Illinois River.

It is believed he planned to head towards the Chetco drainage, a picturesque stretch of river known for its crystal‑clear waters.

A US Coast Guard helicopter crew rescued him Friday morning, following a multi-day search alongside the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office.

A private party coordinating with search and rescue personnel located the hiker approximately two miles downstream from his last known location near Greenwall Rapids.

Coast Guard helicopter support was requested after determining Gabriel could not be safely evacuated on foot due to injuries. It was reported he had suffered injuries to his hands and feet.

The Coast Guard’s MH-65 helicopter crew lowered a rescue swimmer and safely hoisted the hiker onboard the aircraft.

Gabriel was transported to Bay Area Hospital in Coos Bay for evaluation.