UPDATE – Missing Camper Located Safe (Photo) - 07/10/26

UPDATE – Missing Camper Located Safe

On July 9, 2026, at approximately 8:42 p.m., members of Benton County Search and Rescue, working under the direction of the Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue command, located 68-year-old John Nelson alive in a deep drainage near the South Breitenbush Trail. This trail has remained closed since the 2020 wildfires.

The area is heavily impacted by downed trees and burned timber, making access extremely difficult for rescuers. Nelson was located approximately five miles by trail from Russell Lake.

Earlier in the day, the United States Forest Service (USFS) assisted by deploying crews to the area and making significant progress clearing the trail, allowing search teams to safely reach Nelson's location.

Due to the rugged terrain and Nelson's condition, he was unable to hike out. Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue volunteers, alongside the original Benton County Search and Rescue team, remained with him overnight. At approximately 11:00 a.m. today, Nelson was safely evacuated by an Oregon Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopter to a nearby landing zone, where he was evaluated by medics before being reunited with his family and returning home.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere appreciation to the more than 100 Search and Rescue volunteers, partner agencies, the United States Forest Service, and everyone who assisted throughout this operation. We also want to recognize the Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains (WVFRC), especially Chaplain Mitch, who remained with search personnel throughout the operation, providing support to responders during the search.

"This incident is a reminder of how quickly conditions can change in remote wilderness areas," said Sgt. Garrett Olson of the Marion County Sheriff's Office. "Whenever you're hiking or camping, stay with your hiking partner, let someone know your plans, and carry a GPS communication device or emergency beacon capable of sending an emergency notification. Those simple steps can make a significant difference during a rescue."

Sheriff Hunter also expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the successful rescue.

"This outcome is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and perseverance of our Search and Rescue volunteers and our many partner agencies," said Sheriff Hunter. "For days, these teams worked tirelessly in incredibly difficult terrain with one shared goal—to bring John home safely. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment, and we're thankful this search ended with a successful rescue."

The Marion County Sheriff's Office also appreciates the community for sharing information, spreading awareness during the search, and providing information about people who had been in the area. The public's assistance played an important role in supporting this operation.