Pocono News Section

Search Continues in the Poconos for Missing Hiker

Search Continues in the Poconos for Missing Hiker - Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 5:20PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Tuesday, Nov 18, 2008 @ 05:20pm EST
TOBYHANNA, MONROE COUNTY- Crews continue to search for an elderly man in the Poconos. He went hiking more than 24 hours ago and hasn't been seen since.

A Tobyhanna State Park employee saw Charles Harrison in the woods Monday evening. Harrison is 82-years-old and has diabetes. Park Manager Bill Friese said, "He normally does hike by himself. He was looking for deer signs. Apparently he was a hunter."

Harrison normally returns home in the evening but his house remained empty and his daughter began to worry. Pocono Mountain Regional Police Sgt. Jeff Bowman said, "She tried to get in touch with him and in touch with him and not being able to make contact, out of concern, she called police."

Harrison was last in touch with his family about 5:00 Monday night. He made a phone call to his daughter but she couldn't hear him at all. The phone dropped off. However, rescue workers were able to trace the phone call to a nearby cell tower.

Using that information, police found Harrison's truck parked at a trail entrance. "With the freezing temperatures we have a great concern for his well-being out there that's for sure," said Friese.

At least 35 rescue workers canvassed the woods. Their work was difficult. Coolbaugh Township Fire Captain Bill Weimer said, "Unfortunately with the amount of bad weather we already had, a lot of the trees are down blocking the paths making it very difficult for us to get through."

It was also tough in the air. Snow squalls slowed search helicopters, but the rescuers held onto hope. "There's always a chance and we're hopeful we'll be able to get him," added Friese.

Word came late in the afternoon that searchers are bringing in high-powered lights and will continue their search into the night.