Search efforts are continuing today, Thursday May 16, for missing hiker Lucas Macaj, who did not return from a hike at Longs Peak, Colorado, on Sunday, May 12. The search teams by Rocky Mountains National Park Rangers and local police have been supported by the Colorado Army National Guard since Wednesday, May 15.
Lucas Macaj was reported missing on Sunday night when the 23-year-old did not return from a hike to Longs Peak. He was last heard from at around 1 p.m. on Sunday, when he texted a friend indicating that he was on the summit of Longs Peak. Significant storms moved through high elevations in the park Sunday afternoon.
Rocky Mountain National Park Services (NPS) began search efforts for Macaj on Monday morning, and rangers confirmed that his vehicle was still parked at the Longs Peak Trailhead. According to Rocky Mountain National Parks, Macaj took the Keyhole Route to Longs Peak from the Longs Peak Trailhead early yesterday. Extensive searches were conducted on Monday and Tuesday and continued yesterday and today, however strong winds, white out conditions, and low visibility have hampered search efforts.
The Colorado Army National Guard keeps assisting the search. Also assisting are the Colorado Search and Rescue Association, Search and Rescue Dogs of the United States, Larimer County SAR Dog Team, as well as the Boulder County Sheriff Dog Team.
Macaj is a former Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and according to Fox News has transferred to the U.S. Space Force. According to NPS, Macaj is likely wearing a dark-colored top, tan or brown pants, khaki-colored boots, and a black backpack. He may also be wearing a beanie and dark-colored gloves. Macaj is described as 5’9,” 155 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes.
If you have seen Macaj or were in the area on Sunday or have any information that could be helpful, please get in touch with National Park Services. Information can also be submitted anonymously.
☎️ CALL the NPS Tip Line at 888-653-0009
🌎 ONLINE www.nps.gov/ISB
📧 EMAIL nps_isb@nps.gov
