FAYSTON — The Vermont State Police officially identify the deceased hiker from the May 6 incident in Fayston, as Nicholas Dewey, age 22, of Morrisville. They are still awaiting autopsy results from the Vermont Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, however, there is no indication of foul play at this time.
On Tuesday morning the police received a call advising that Dewey was missing in the Fayston area. According to information gathered from family members, Dewey left to hike from the Hedgehog Trail for a 3 – 5 day trip.
On Monday he called his father at around 10:00 p.m. advising he was drenched from the rain, cold, and missing a shoe. They were concerned he may have been suffering from hypothermia. Family members attempted to locate him along the trail, but were unable to make contact.
The Vermont State Police immediately initiated a search to locate Dewey upon receiving the call from his family. Attempts at reestablishing phone communication with him were unsuccessful.
Ground crews were sent into the area where Dewey was last seen, and encountered difficult conditions with deep snow in the back country. An Army National Guard helicopter was deployed and assisted in the search.
Dewey was located by helicopter, deceased, deep in the back country off the Long Trail at approximately 3:30 p.m., Tuesday.
He was transported to the Vermont Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for official identification.
The investigation indicated that Dewey was carrying a 70 pound backpack, and was prepared to stay out overnight camping.
The Vermont State Police urge anyone venturing out into the backcountry this spring, to be prepared for difficult conditions with deep snow.
Anytime you venture into Vermont’s backcountry, know where you’re going, or go with someone familiar with the area. Also be sure to watch and plan for changing weather, travel in groups, pack the proper equipment, and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
