HIkers swept away in Grand Canyon

http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/experie...teen/ar-BBzWOWM

This is really awful news. There is still hope....

That is awful.
Which means what besides not having their gear? Maybe Lou-Ann Merrell had a plan. Here is hoping there is a good ending.

good to see the use of a rescue beacon / PLB

Hoping for a good outcome!

Did a quick search and most article are dated April 19th. The latest I found is from Newsmax dated today. Jackson Standefer, Lou-Ann Merrell Swept Away in Canyon.

Earlier articles spoke of Merrell Boot donating equipment --
Merrell Boot offers rescuers, drone for Grand Canyon search for missing hikers
The search continues.

Interesting that they apparently are employing drones, in addition to the drone that Merrell is offering to provide. This is good.

A few months ago, there was a blanket prohibition within the NPS on use of any drones for any purpose, until appropriate policies could be developed to properly manage this new technology. I don't know if this has happened, or if this situation received an exception, but it is good news that there are drones, as well as boots, on the ground.

SAR is one of the most obvious, and probably one of the most productive uses, of drone technology.

http://newschannel9.com/news/local/natio...in-grand-canyon

The search effort is scaling back. No joy.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/drones-time-major-search-grand-canyon-46942665

Here is a piece giving background on the use of drones for SAR efforts within the park. Clearly a useful tool which, properly used, can upgrade SAR and other park programs considerably.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/grand-c...ssee/ar-BBAvhEO

At least there is a definitive conclusion...