A weekend hike through Washington state’s rugged Enchantments wilderness turned into a deadly fight for survival for an Oklahoma couple caught in a sudden snowstorm.
The couple was hiking in the remote high-elevation area when heavy snow left them soaked, exhausted and unable to continue. At 5:26 p.m., the husband sent an urgent text to 911, telling dispatchers that his wife, 45-year-old Sybil Claborn, could no longer move.
Rescue teams faced dangerous weather as helicopter attempts were repeatedly forced to turn back. The husband remained in contact with emergency officials and even tried to carry his wife to safety, but could not get her out.
Ground rescuers eventually reached the couple around 3:30 a.m. and found Claborn dead in the snow. Her husband was suffering from severe hypothermia and was taken to a medical center for treatment.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Claborn’s death.
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