A 66-year-old Washington state man fell to his death while hiking last Saturday on Sauk Mountain in the Northern Cascades, northeast of Seattle. Gary Idleburg, an Olympia native, was navigating a switchback trail when he fell 800 to 1,000 feet, according to the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office.
Witnesses reported the fall and emergency responders attempted life-saving efforts, but Idleburg was pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff’s office has extended its condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.
This incident occurred just a day after the body of a 78-year-old missing hiker was found on the same mountain. Peter Kalapaca, who had been missing for a day, was identified by authorities. His search operation involved a multi-agency effort, including ground teams, air resources, and mountain rescue personnel.
The sheriff’s office expressed gratitude for the efforts of those involved in the search and rescue operation, which allowed for some measure of closure for the Kalapaca family.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
View original reporting →
