Pilot Found Dead on Mountain Days After Failing to Show Up to Work as Family Questions Why He Went on Hike Alone

A three-day search effort came to a tragic conclusion when the body of Alex Keen, a 34-year-old hiker, was found on a mountain in Washington State. Keen had been reported missing on May 10 after failing to arrive at work, prompting concern among family and colleagues.

Authorities from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office began their investigation upon receiving notification of his disappearance. They indicated that initial inquiries suggested Keen had embarked on a solo hike in the vicinity of Mount Pugh, situated near Darrington. A search team located his vehicle at the trailhead, confirming that he had likely begun his trek alone.

During the first day of the search, fellow hikers proved invaluable by providing information that led to identifying Keen’s last known whereabouts. This cooperation significantly aided search teams in their efforts to locate him.

Rescue efforts intensified as teams from mountain rescue units and the sheriff’s office deployed helicopters to assist in the search. They eventually uncovered some of Keen’s personal belongings at the summit of a steep couloir, a pivotal discovery that directed search teams toward where he might be found.

On the third day of the operation, rescues teams traversed the challenging terrain of the couloir. Tragically, they found Keen’s body approximately 800 feet below the location where his hiking gear had been discovered. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office will now ascertain the cause and manner of his death.

Keen’s family expressed their devastation following the news of his passing. His aunt, Karin Clemetson, identified him in an interview with The Seattle Times and also set up a GoFundMe page to help with expenses. She reflected on Keen’s adventurous spirit, noting that while the family is grappling with the question of why he opted to hike alone, he had been in high spirits leading up to the expedition.

“He enjoyed the outdoors, he enjoyed some adrenaline, and he just enjoyed adventure,” Clemetson stated, emphasising his love for nature and excitement in life. Friends and acquaintances confirmed that he had shared his hiking plans with them prior to his departure, further underscoring his adventurous character.

Alex Keen was well-known within the aviation community as a full-time pilot at Skydive Snohomish. Mayon Hight, the owner of the skydiving centre, fondly recalled Keen’s dependable nature, stating, “He was always 30 minutes early to work, with a big smile on his face, and was just a joy to be around.” Hight also noted Keen’s integral role in training aspiring pilots, many of whom fondly remembered him as an encouraging instructor that sparked their passion for aviation.

The aviation community has been left mourning Keen’s loss, with Hight expressing the deep impact his passing has had. “Alex was a huge part of our team, our dropzone, the aviation community here at Harvey Airfield, and our daily lives. His loss is deeply felt by everyone here,” the company conveyed in a heartfelt tribute.

As the family grieves, they are left to process the profound loss of a beloved son, nephew, and friend. The mountains, which Keen cherished, now serve as a bittersweet reminder of his adventurous spirit and the tragic turn of events that led to his untimely death.