Hunter dies southeast of Aspen, alert reports

A hunter collapsed and died up Independence Pass southeast of Aspen on Friday, according to a Pitkin County alert.

Shortly before 2 p.m., Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch received notification from a satellite communication device that the hunter’s guide was administering CPR on the collapsed hunter on Lincoln Creek Road 2.7 miles past Grizzly Reservoir, according to the alert.

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office immediately requested assistance from the all-volunteer professionals at Mountain Rescue Aspen (MRA), the Aspen Ambulance District, the Aspen Fire Protection District, and Careflight of the Rockies, according to the alert. 

“At (3:36 p.m.), the first rescue team made contact with the patient. After initial evaluation, it was evident the patient showed no signs of life and was deceased,” the alert states. “Rescue teams coordinated with the Pitkin County Coroner’s Office and the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office for further operations on-scene. By (7:26 p.m.), all rescue teams were out of the field.” 

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the all-volunteer professionals at MRA, the Aspen Ambulance District, the Aspen Fire Protection District, and Careflight of the Rockies for their quick and professional response, the alert states.

“Those venturing into the backcountry are advised to know and operate within their limits. Rescues deep into the backcountry can be lengthy due to challenging terrain,” the alert states. “Identity of the victim will be released by the Pitkin County Coroner’s Office pending notification of the next of kin.”