Rescuers Search for Stranded Hunters, 2 Dead

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - At least 16 hunters remain stranded of the dozens of hunters originally stranded in below-freezing temperatures, after Monday's snowstorm in northern Arizona that dumped 2 to 3 feet of snow on the area.

As of Thursday morning, two bodies have been found, including a firefighter from Tempe. One body was found near Payson, only about a mile from his truck.

Coconino County Sheriff Bill Pribil says there are at least 5 hunting groups that remain unaccounted for. Some of those parties include children and the elderly, and some of the hunters are from the Phoenix area.

There may be more hunters calling for help after 5 p.m., because that is when the elk hunt ends.

Coconino County rescuers have been in contact with some of the hunters by cell phone, and other reports have come in from family members reporting overdue parties. The problem has been trying to reach the groups, some of which may be several miles from paved roads.

Rescuers on snowshoes, skies and snowmobiles are in the back country attempting to reach the hunters. In some cases, crews will need the assistance of the DPS helicopter for air-lifting. Snow cats, conventional 4-wheel-drive vehicles, and a rubber track vehicle will be utilized for rescue efforts.

Temperatures in Flagstaff are below zero Thursday morning with 2 to 3 feet of snow on the ground.

Authorities are concerned that hunters from the Phoenix area may not be as prepared for the extreme weather conditions.

DPS is working fast to try to find the hunters, because another storm is reportedly moving into the area.