Old Hiker Missing Since August; Found Dead Beside Loyal Dog

In a tragic turn of events, 71-year-old hiker Rich Moore, missing since August, has been discovered lifeless in the Colorado mountains.

Remarkably, his faithful Jack Russell terrier, Finney, survived the harrowing ordeal and was found beside Moore’s body.

Moore and Finney embarked on their hike to Blackhead Peak on August 19, located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The challenging three-mile route with a 2,500-foot elevation gain proved fatal, as Moore’s body was found by a local hunter in the Lower Blanco drainage basin on October 30.

The trek to Blackhead’s 12,500-foot summit is described as rough and rocky, with the last stretch being an unmaintained ‘social trail.’ Search and rescue efforts were initiated promptly after Moore’s body was discovered, involving the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office.

Despite the heartbreaking outcome, there is a glimmer of hope in Finney’s survival story. The loyal dog endured more than two months in the wilderness and was transported to a local veterinary hospital before being joyously reunited with her family.

Authorities have not disclosed Moore’s cause of death, but foul play is not suspected. The Colorado Missing Person Organization had previously posted a flyer seeking information about the missing hiker and his canine companion.

Local search and rescue teams, including Taos Search and Rescue, played a crucial role in recovering Moore’s body. Delinda Vanne-Brightyn, a member of the group, shared her experience and expressed condolences to the family, emphasizing the closure gained through this challenging process.

Online, heartfelt condolences poured in, with many acknowledging the remarkable bond between Moore and Finney. The community thanked the search teams for their dedication, highlighting the enduring loyalty of dogs in such circumstances.

This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable challenges hikers may face, even in well-traveled areas. Our thoughts go out to Rich Moore’s family and friends during this difficult time.