Photo: Mike Sweeney Photography / Moment / Getty Images
The body of 44-year-old Christopher Huyler was recovered by a team of 22 rescuers after he suffered a significant fall in icy terrain in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Huyler, an avid outdoor enthusiast from Littleton, New Hampshire, had planned a hike to the area of the middle Cannon Ball up through the Coppermine Brook Valley to check conditions of a ski glade prior to the winter skiing season, according to a statement from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
Huyler had communicated to his wife around 4:00 p.m. on Friday (November 22) that he was okay and on his way back. However, when he did not return home in a reasonable timeframe, his wife called for assistance. Conservation officers from New Hampshire Fish and Game and Franconia Police responded to the trailhead after locating Huyler's vehicle at Coppermine Road off Route 116 in Franconia.
The search for Huyler began at approximately 9:00 p.m., and his body was located just prior to 1:00 a.m. at around 2,800 feet in elevation. The recovery effort required bushwhacking through thick vegetation in wintery conditions. The rescue party reached the trailhead just prior to 9:00 a.m. and was met by the assistant Medical Examiner. It was apparent that Huyler had suffered a significant fall in icy terrain. He was wearing microspikes and was well-equipped for a hike.
An autopsy has been planned to determine Huyler’s exact cause of death. Authorities took the opportunity to remind people to be prepared for treacherous winter conditions and to pack essential items for their trek.
