Experienced Climber Missing After Fall on Mount Jefferson
A 37-year-old experienced climber from Kuna, Idaho, Jared John Empey, is missing and presumed dead after a fall on the west side of Mount Jefferson in Linn County, Oregon. Witnesses reported seeing a climber in a red jacket fall near…
Portland, OR, July 25, 2026 —
An experienced climber from Kuna, Idaho, is missing and presumed dead following a significant fall on Mount Jefferson in Linn County, Oregon. Jared John Empey, 37, was last seen by witnesses on the west side of the mountain.
According to reports, witnesses observed a climber wearing a red jacket fall near an area known as the Red Saddle. The climber subsequently disappeared into the Milk Creek drainage. Emergency responders have located the climber’s backpack and other gear.
Officials involved in the search and rescue operations indicated that due to the nature and severity of the fall, they believe the incident was not survivable. Efforts to recover Mr. Empey are currently underway, however, the challenging terrain and remote location present significant obstacles to the recovery mission.
The specific circumstances leading to the fall are not detailed, but the climber is described as experienced. Mount Jefferson is a prominent peak in the Cascade Range, known for its challenging climbing routes.
Story summarized from the original created by FOX 12 Staff on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
