Officials in Grand County said on Tuesday they are suspending a search for a , calling the decision “very difficult” and “sorrowful.”
The county sheriff’s office said they feel there is a low probability the hunter is still alive because of extreme weather conditions in the area and that they do not feel confident they can locate him.
Richard Kothanek, 51, was hunting on foot in the area of Meadow Creek Reservoir northeast of Fraser by himself when he went missing. He was reported overdue about 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The sheriff’s office estimates 750 man hours were expended during the search, which included rescue crews from throughout the state. Military helicopters were also used in the search mission.
Officials say the extreme cold and heavy snow this weekend made search conditions adverse.
“There were no sightings or solid clues as to the whereabouts of Kothanek,” the office said. “Our prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends.”
Jesse Paul: 303-954-1733, jpaul@denverpost.com or twitter.com/JesseAPaul
