Treacherous backcountry conditions claimed two lives in Washington state Friday. A large avalanche struck four snowmobilers near Longs Pass. The incident occurred in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Authorities identified the deceased men later that weekend. Paul Markoff was thirty-eight years old from North Bend. Erik Henne was forty-three years old from Snoqualmie Pass. Their two companions survived the sudden snow slide. The treacherous backcountry conditions complicated rescue efforts significantly.
Furthermore, the avalanche happened around four in the afternoon. The group was recreating in a remote mountain area. Survivors Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie sent a distress call. They used a Garmin satellite device for emergency communication. Kittitas County Search and Rescue teams responded quickly. Deputies also rushed to the remote scene immediately. One survivor suffered a partial burial during the event. He sustained a non-debilitating knee injury from the snow. The other survivor avoided burial completely fortunately.
Moreover, the survivors attempted a desperate rescue initially. They tried digging out one of their partially buried friends. Their efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful however. A specialized K9 unit located the second victim later. The dog found that man under four feet of snow. The treacherous backcountry conditions prevented nighttime recovery. Rescuers deemed the area too hazardous after dark. Teams evacuated the two survivors that evening instead. They used snowmobiles and carried specialized avalanche equipment.
Consequently, crews returned to the site Saturday morning. They brought air support and three additional K9 units. The dogs helped navigate the unstable avalanche debris. Personnel then recovered both men’s bodies successfully. A helicopter airlifted the deceased to a search base. The Kittitas County Coroner’s Office received them afterward. Teams also recovered the group’s personal belongings. This included two snowmobiles left at the accident scene.
Finally, the sheriff’s office extended condolences to the families. The Northwest Avalanche Center assisted in assessing the accident. This tragedy highlights the dangers of winter backcountry travel. Avalanche risk remains high across many western states. Proper equipment and training are critical for safety. Satellite communication devices enabled this rescue mission. The survivors’ quick action allowed help to arrive. This incident serves as a sobering reminder to all adventurers.
