Two Colorado Mountain College students found dead in Chaffee County after weekend hike

Key points

• Bodies of Kaden Matsuda and Jackson Donlon were found around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in a basin of West Apostle Mountain, about 100 miles southeast of Aspen.
• The pair left Colorado Mountain College Leadville on Friday, planning to hike Ice Mountain, a technical peak requiring experienced climbers, and were expected back by Sunday.
• A helicopter discovered their collapsed tent near Lake Ann on Tuesday, containing sleeping bags, a stove, and clothing, but no sign of the students.
• Approximately 60 search and rescue volunteers, aided by helicopters, drones, and dogs, conducted the search in hazardous conditions with several feet of snow.
• Chaffee County Sheriff Andy Rohrich stated that foul play is not suspected, and authorities will not offer theories until autopsies are completed.

Background

This incident follows earlier coverage of the search for Matsuda and Donlon, which intensified after their collapsed tent was found near Lake Ann on Tuesday. Authorities had warned that the search window was closing due to worsening weather, including heavy snowfall and hazardous terrain. The students were described by friends and family as experienced hikers and climbers, with Matsuda studying to become a wildland firefighter and Donlon studying to become a mountain guide.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian, KKTV, and ABC News all report the discovery of the bodies and the conclusion of the search, but emphasize different aspects. The Guardian focuses on the emotional impact on families and the sheriff’s pride in the team’s efforts. KKTV highlights the logistical challenges of the search, including the use of beacon technology and the involvement of college faculty with specialized training. ABC News provides detailed forensic information, noting that the students’ phones had not been used in 48 hours, though authorities suggested they may have turned them off to preserve battery life. All sources agree that foul play is not suspected and that autopsies are pending.

Why it matters

This case underscores the dangers of technical mountain climbing in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, especially during winter conditions. It highlights the importance of proper preparation and the risks associated with attempting peaks like Ice Mountain, which requires experienced climbers. The incident also demonstrates the coordinated efforts of search and rescue teams in challenging environments.

What to watch

Autopsies are pending to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Authorities will not offer theories until these examinations are completed. The families and friends of the victims are expected to receive closure once the autopsies are finished.