A Missouri deputy attorney general who vanished while attempting to summit Wyoming's tallest peak was found alive Wednesday after six days in the rugged Wind River Range.

Shaun Mackelprang, 55, was located near Scott Lake in Bridger-Teton National Forest around 9:45 a.m. on August 26. Rescue crews airlifted him to safety by helicopter. He was reported dehydrated and disoriented but conscious upon discovery.

Mackelprang had set out alone on August 20 from the Green River Lakes Trailhead. His goal was Gannett Peak, which stands at 13,804 feet and ranks among the more challenging high points in the United States due to its glaciers and remote location. He successfully reached the summit earlier in the week before becoming lost on his return.

Search efforts began after his vehicle was found at the trailhead. Teams from the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office, including its drone unit, along with Tip Top Search and Rescue volunteers and helicopter support, conducted ground and aerial operations across difficult terrain.

Missouri Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway issued a statement expressing relief. "We are thrilled to hear that Deputy Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang has been located," she said. "Our office is beyond grateful for everyone’s prayers and the steadfast work of the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office and drone team, Tip Top Search and Rescue’s volunteers and helicopter crew, and Wyoming State leaders."

Mackelprang has served in the Missouri Attorney General’s Office for nearly three decades, most recently as a deputy attorney general in the Criminal Division. He has pursued a personal goal of climbing the highest point in each of the 50 states, with Gannett Peak marking his 45th summit.

Authorities said Mackelprang was recovering in a Pinedale hospital with family. The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office credited the coordinated response for the positive outcome in the vast backcountry area.