2 Dead as Desperate Search for Stranded Hunters in Arizona Ends

Published January 07, 2015

Northern Arizona authorities say they have resolved all reports of stranded or overdue hunters who were caught in deep snow and freezing temperatures.

In all, authorities received 22 reports either from hunters themselves or families concerned about their loved ones. Coconino County Sheriff's Office spokesman Gerry Blair says 50 hunters were offered assistance, some of whom declined.

At least two bodies were found.

Watch video.

A powerful winter storm dumped between 2 and 3 feet of snow in northern Arizona earlier this week, and wind gusts reached up to 78 mph.

Blair says no injuries had been reported. Searchers focused on retrieving hunters who might have been low on food and heating fuel.

Another storm could hit the area this weekend.