A cruise passenger has gone missing during a solo hike in Alaska, sparking a search and rescue operation. Marites Buenafe, a 62-year-old from Kentucky, was last seen on Tuesday, July 1, at Mount Roberts Tramway. Buenafe, who was travelling on the Norwegian Bliss, informed her family via text that she was embarking on a hike from Gold Ridge to Gastineau Peak. However, when it was time for the ship to depart at 1:30 p.m., Buenafe had not returned.
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The Alaska State Troopers reported that Buenafe was captured on security cameras leaving the Mount Roberts Tramway buildings around the same time she messaged her family. Norwegian Cruise Line immediately notified local authorities when Buenafe did not reboard the ship, initiating an active search. The cruise line’s CARE team is supporting Buenafe’s family, offering assistance during the distressing situation.
Search efforts began with aerial searches using helicopters from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers Helo 5 and the U.S. Coast Guard. Despite pausing the search overnight, Juneau Mountain Rescue and Southeast Alaska Dogs for Organized Ground Search resumed operations the following day with drones and K-9 Units. Weather conditions permitted limited helicopter searches late into the day. The search teams planned to continue their efforts on the subsequent day.
Buenafe, a physician at UK HealthCare in Lexington, Ky., is described as 5 feet tall, weighing 118 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. She obtained her degree from Case Western Reserve University and completed her residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. With over two decades of experience in practice, Buenafe is a respected member of the medical community.
Anyone with information regarding Buenafe’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Alaska State Troopers in Juneau at 907-465-4000, referencing incident AK25063914. The situation has left family, friends, and colleagues concerned for Buenafe’s safety and well-being during this uncertain time in Alaska.
The alarming disappearance of Marites Buenafe highlights the potential dangers of solo excursions, especially in remote and challenging terrains like Alaska. Search and rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate Buenafe and ensure her safe return to her loved ones. The support and assistance from local authorities, cruise line personnel, and volunteers demonstrate a united effort in the search mission.
As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for Buenafe’s swift and safe recovery. The importance of safety measures and vigilant planning before setting out on outdoor activities is underscored by this incident. The collaborative search efforts reflect the dedication and commitment to ensuring the well-being of individuals in distress, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity and compassion in times of uncertainty.
The circumstances surrounding Buenafe’s disappearance serve as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventures and the need for caution when exploring unfamiliar environments. The search for Buenafe embodies a collective determination to reunite her with her family and friends, offering a glimmer of hope amidst challenging circumstances. Stay tuned for further updates on the ongoing search and rescue operation in Alaska.
In the midst of this unsettling situation, the community’s thoughts and prayers are with Buenafe and her loved ones, hoping for a positive outcome in the search efforts. As details continue to unfold, the importance of vigilance and preparedness in outdoor activities resonates with all who follow this developing story. The united response to Buenafe’s disappearance signifies a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every individual, especially in times of crisis.