Day/date: September 20, 1988



                              RANGER ACTIVITIES DIVISION
                                 FIELD INCIDENT REPORT

Incident type: Search
Log number: 88-229
Date/time of incident: 9/19                        Date/time received: 9/20, 10 am
Park: Sequoia-Kings Canyon Location: Sawtooth Pass and Columbine Lake
Reported by: Jack Davis, Supt., SEKI and Doug Morris, CR, SEKI
Received by: Jon Anglin, RAD, WASO

Incident Summary
A search is being conducted for W.K., 20, of Los Angeles, California
in the Mineral King area of Sequoia-Kings Canyon. W.K. was reported
missing on the 19th after failing to return home on the 16th from a week
long solo hike in the area. An aerial search conducted on the 19th produced
no trace of W.K.. A more extensive search involving 2 helicopters, 3 dog
teams and 22 personnel was started on the 20th and is focusing on the
Sawtooth Pass and Columbine Lake areas.

W.K. is a former National High School Senior of the Year and was presented
that award by President Reagan.

Update - 9/23

The body of W.K. was discovered mid-day on the 22nd by search teams
in the vicinity of Sawtooth Peak. W.K. appears to have died as the result
of a fall.

At the height of the search there were 7 dog teams, 4 helicopters, 3
infrared units and 65 people involved in search efforts. Assistance was
provided by the U.S. Forest Service, California Mountain Rescue Association,
WOOF (Wilderness Finders - dog teams), California Rescue Dog Association and
the U.S. Navy.