Discovery of Missing Hiker's Body in Rocky Mountain National Park

The body of a hiker, Lucas Macaj, who went missing during storms on Sunday, has been found at Rocky Mountain National Park, according to officials in a media release.

Lucas Macaj's body was discovered on Mills Glacier, close to Lamb's Slide, and initial investigations suggest that he experienced a major fall, as stated by park officials on Thursday.

Macaj tried to summit Longs Peak on Sunday but was reported missing later that night. He had last contacted a friend around 1 p.m. on Sunday, mentioning that he had reached the summit of Longs Peak.

The park reported that significant storms passed through high elevations that afternoon. According to CNN Weather, heavy snow fell late Sunday afternoon. Wind gusts of up to 30 mph were recorded at a weather station at nearby Granby-Grand County Airport in the lower elevations.

Macaj's vehicle was discovered at the trailhead to Longs Peak on Monday. Search efforts on Tuesday were hindered by harsh weather conditions including strong winds, white out conditions, and poor visibility, according to park officials.

According to CNN affiliate KUSA, Macaj was a former Marine Corps member who had most recently been serving in the U.S. Space Force in Colorado Springs.

Natalie Dodgen, his girlfriend, shared with KUSA that he was in great shape and had extensive experience hiking in challenging landscapes.

After being flown to a landing zone in Rocky Mountain National Park, Macaj's body was then transported to the Boulder County Coroner's Office. The park service mentioned that the cause of death will be determined and released by the coroner's office.

CNN’s Andy Rose and Monica Garrett contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

The news of Lucas Macaj's tragic demise fills me with profound sadness. His untimely departure is a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the wilderness and the perils that hikers face in challenging terrain. The harsh weather conditions prevalent during his fateful ascent serve as a sobering testament to the importance of preparedness and the unpredictable nature of the mountains.

Macaj's military background and extensive hiking experience underscore his competence and determination. However, even the most skilled and experienced individuals are vulnerable to the whims of nature. His story highlights the need for proper planning, adequate gear, and a healthy respect for the mountains. May his memory serve as a cautionary tale for those who venture into the wilderness, reminding us to always prioritize safety and heed the warnings of impending storms.