Baker County Search and Rescue helps couple whose truck was stuck in snow
By Joe Hathaway on Friday, February 16th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER COUNTY — (Release by Baker County Sheriff’s Office) On February 14, 2024 at approximately 8:35 p.m., Baker County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a report of stranded individuals in the Rye Valley area. The reporting party indicated that he and his partner had been trying to walk out after their pickup became stuck in the snow but were not dressed for the weather and were unable to build a fire.
Two Baker County Search and Rescue members deployed to the area with a side- by-side and unloaded on Mormon Basin Road. As they were traveling on Mormon Basin Road, they encountered a male subject who was attempting to locate the couple but was having difficulty due to the snow. After talking with SAR members, the subject drove back down to the unloading area to wait.
SAR members traveled approximately five miles when they located the couple, identified as Derek Rafferty (55 yoa) and Monica Rafferty (55 yoa) of Huntington, Oregon. Earlier that day, the couple went for a drive but became stuck when they encountered approximately 10-12 inches of snow. They attempted to walk out but called for help after nearly five miles. Both were located in good condition but were extremely cold. They were transported by side-by-side to the male subject waiting for them.
