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Sirin O’Connor, age 63, and Somjak Weerapit, 50, both of Quincy, and Phromthep Khankaew, 37, of Thailand, were reported lost on Friday, Jan. 19, just before 5 p.m. atop Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire, wildlife officials said.
They were woefully unprepared for the weather and the conditions as they had no flashlights, no heat source, and no heavy winter clothing despite temperatures being -10 degrees Fahrenheit with the wind chill, authorities said.
Rescuers called the trio to help guide them back onto the trail, but as the sunlight faded, they were stuck and unable to go any further. Guides and emergency personnel found them and led them down the mountain.
However, O’Connor’s condition worsened on the climb down. Rescuers stopped to warm her up and give her fluids, but she needed to be carried the remaining 1.3 miles down the mountain trail, officials said.
Rescuers got them to the trailhead just before 10 p.m. O'Connor was taken to Monadnock Community Hospital to treat her injuries.
"Thankfully, due to the herculean efforts of rescue crews from Monadnock Park staff, Upper Valley Wilderness Response Team, and New Hampshire Conservation Officers, the three victims survived their blunder," said New Hampshire Fish and Game officials. "Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to check the weather forecast and prepare for the current winter weather conditions including bringing appropriate gear."
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