Lucas Macaj : “Missing Colorado Springs Hiker Found on Longs Peak”

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – The tragic story of 23-year-old Lucas Macaj, a soldier stationed at Schriever Space Force Base, has left the community in mourning. On Mother’s Day, Macaj embarked on a challenging hike up to the summit of Long’s Peak, the highest point in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Despite successfully reaching the summit and notifying a friend of his achievement, Macaj disappeared shortly after. Rocky Mountain National Park Rangers highlighted the treacherous conditions of the terrain, with steep slopes, deep snow, strong winds, and icy surfaces making the area extremely hazardous.

Following Macaj’s ascent, the weather took a turn for the worse, with heavy snowfall, high winds, and freezing temperatures engulfing the region. Search and Rescue teams launched a four-day search operation, eventually locating Macaj’s body on Mill’s Glacier on Thursday, May 16th. The Boulder County Coroner’s Office will conduct an investigation to determine the official cause of death.

In a statement released by Schriever Space Force Base, U.S. Space Force Sgt. Lucas Macaj was identified as the missing hiker whose remains were found in Rocky Mountain National Park. Colleagues at the base expressed their profound sorrow at the loss of a valued team member.

Macaj, a space operator with the 8th Combat Training Squadron, joined the Space Force in August 2023 after transferring from the U.S. Marine Corps. His contributions were recognized with the Air and Space Longevity Service Award.

The recovery effort involved a collaborative effort from various agencies and organisations, including Flight for Life Air Ambulance, the State of Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, and the Colorado Army National Guard. Search and Rescue teams and canine units from multiple counties also played a crucial role in the search and recovery process.

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