Melvin George Heaps, a 74-year-old experienced hiker, went missing on July 31, 2017, during a day hike in the Crystal Lake area of the Wasatch National Forest, near Kamas, Utah. Heaps had gone hiking many times in this region, and his vehicle was located at the Crystal Lake Trailhead, but he never returned as expected. Despite extensive search efforts, including ground and air operations involving search dogs and volunteer search teams, no sign of Heaps was found.
Heaps was last known to be wearing a red or rust-colored long-sleeve shirt with beige stripes, blue jeans, and brown hiking boots. He had hearing impairments, which could have made it difficult for him to hear search crews. Authorities eventually scaled back the search after several days due to the lack of new leads, but his case remains open, and he is presumed lost in the wilderness.
The Summit County Sheriff’s Office continues to seek any information that could help locate Heaps.
Last Seen: Jul 31, 2017
