Because I want to live in hiking land in my head even when I can't be on the trail, I've started a novel about a hiker who goes missing, and the people involved with or interested in the search. Let's just say foul play is soon suspected, and all is not as it appears. Lots of hiking and backpacking and poring over maps ensues, both through official channels and just friends/family wanting to help.
As research, I would like to interview (in person or via PM) individual(s) involved in SAR, as well as anyone who can tell me about procedures when a person goes missing vs. when foul play is immediately suspected. Maybe someone who knows about SAR from the law enforcement side (a sheriff's office?). If any of the above descriptions fit you or someone you know and you would be willing to talk with me, shoot me a PM. Or feel free to wax eloquent below.
Reading suggestions are also welcome! I've already read The Last Season by Eric Blehm and Lost in the Wild by Cary Griffith, wherein I learned about things like the Mattson Consensus, Probability of Area, etc. Fascinating stuff. Not sure if search theory is applied in the same way in foul play scenarios as in events when hikers are presumed injured, etc. But that's why I'm asking for help: I don't know what I don't know!
Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcement?
-
- Posts: 1291
- Joined: July 23rd, 2011, 8:31 pm
- Location: Canby, Oregon
- Contact:
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
You should PM Lurch, here on Oregon Hikers. He's a sergeant with the Multnomah County SAR team.
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
Not a Sgt, I'm on the volunteer side of things. But been doing it about 18 years at this point.
Kick me a PM and we can chat
Kick me a PM and we can chat
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
Thank you both! Lurch, I sent you a PM.
If anyone else has guidance or favorite books about searches and/or hiking and outdoor survival generally, I'd love to hear anything you want to share.
If anyone else has guidance or favorite books about searches and/or hiking and outdoor survival generally, I'd love to hear anything you want to share.
-
- Posts: 3
- Joined: August 10th, 2016, 5:44 pm
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
Mt. Hood National Forest is mostly in Clackamas County and Clackamas County Sheriff have a Search and Rescue Unit - Sean Collinson heads that up. Then they call out the volunteer rescue groups - most of all Portland Mt. Rescue (PMR) folks. They are also supported by Mountain Wave Communications. There are other rescue groups that also get called out. Those would be the folks to talk to if you are writing a book and want the straight scoop.
- retired jerry
- Posts: 14426
- Joined: May 28th, 2008, 10:03 pm
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
That sounds like the story about someone pushed off Eagle Creek and killed, probably next to the viewpoint that slid
Isn't someone currently being charged, trial pending?
Isn't someone currently being charged, trial pending?
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
Thanks for the tip!MtHood_Oregon wrote:Those would be the folks to talk to if you are writing a book and want the straight scoop.
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
Wow, I remember hearing about a woman who fell to her death but somehow missed hearing about the later murder charge.retired jerry wrote:That sounds like the story about someone pushed off Eagle Creek and killed, probably next to the viewpoint that slid
- retired jerry
- Posts: 14426
- Joined: May 28th, 2008, 10:03 pm
Re: Research for a hiking-related novel: SAR? law enforcemen
I only vaguely remember, I think they're currently taking some legal action against him, maybe it's over...