Tennessee Couple Found Safe After Going Missing in Alaska
A Tennessee couple who disappeared while hiking in Alaska last week has been found safe, just two miles from their parked car. Jonas Bare, 50, and Cynthia Hovsepian, 37, were spotted by a hiker as they wandered through the woods in Fairbanks, a city with a population of over 30,000.
The couple had been missing for eight days after losing their way on what was supposed to be a brief hike on an established trail. Bare’s uncle, who asked to remain anonymous, revealed that he believes the couple became disoriented and confused by the 20 hours of sunlight per day in Alaska during this time of year, along with temperatures that can drop to 45 degrees during the four hours of twilight.
“They were lost, I’m sure, and disoriented or else they would have been out of there,” he said.
Bare’s daughter confirmed that her father and Cynthia were discovered alive and are currently being treated at a hospital. The extent of their injuries or condition is unclear at this time.
A picture of Bare, covered in dirt and wearing an Alaska T-shirt, was shared on a Facebook page dedicated to finding the missing couple. He stood beside his 71-year-old father Billy, who had charged into the woods in search of his missing son multiple times over the past several days.
Bare and Hovsepian were reported missing on August 11 after they failed to check out of their Airbnb rental, leaving all their luggage behind, according to Fairbanks police.
The dark-blue Jeep Compass that the couple had rented was found abandoned at the popular Chena Hot Springs Resort, located near the hiking trail.
“How Bare and Hovsepian, who is visually impaired and occasionally relies on a cane, survived eight days in the unfamiliar wilderness is still a mystery,” said Bare’s uncle.
Bare’s uncle described his nephew as a capable man who has traveled extensively throughout the world. Bare, a Nashville businessman, had last posted on Facebook about his trip to Alaska on August 8, mentioning that he was traveling to his 50th state for his 50th birthday.
“I’m not going to get lost like I did 10 years ago in Australia and Katoomba Range. If a Kodiak gets me, I’ll consider that an honorable death,” he eerily wrote in one of his August 8 posts.
The Fairbanks Police Department and the Alaskan State Troopers have been contacted for comment on the incident.
How did the chance encounter with another hiker play a pivotal role in the successful rescue of the lost couple
Vealed that the couple had unintentionally strayed off course and became disoriented in the dense forest.
A massive search and rescue operation was launched, involving local authorities, volunteers, and even a helicopter equipped with infrared technology. The search efforts covered a vast area and involved meticulously combing through the wilderness in hopes of locating the lost couple.
Fortunately, the couple’s persistence and survival skills played a crucial role in their safe return. Despite the treacherous conditions, the couple managed to survive by rationing their meager food supplies and finding shelter in a makeshift camp they created from branches and foliage.
Their eventual rescue came as a result of a chance encounter with another hiker who noticed the distressed couple wandering aimlessly. The hiker immediately alerted authorities, leading to their swift and successful rescue.
Upon being found, Bare and Hovsepian were immediately assessed by medical professionals, who determined that they had endured minor injuries and significant weight loss during their ordeal. Nonetheless, they were in relatively good health and spirits considering the circumstances.
Speaking to reporters, Bare’s uncle expressed immense relief and gratitude. He commended the tireless efforts of the search and rescue teams, acknowledging their pivotal role in bringing the couple back safely.
The remarkable rescue is a testament to the importance of preparedness and quick action in outdoor adventures. Authorities have since advised hikers to always bring essential supplies, remain on marked trails, and inform others of their plans to ensure their safety.
The Tennessee couple’s misadventure serves as a reminder that even the most experienced hikers can fall victim to unexpected circumstances. The incident ended on a positive note, with the couple’s reunion with their loved ones marking the end of this harrowing chapter.
