Body of missing hiker found

A search and rescue effort in St. Ignatius commenced Tuesday when it was confirmed the individual was found deceased.

Mike Wheeler went missing off Pistol Creek Road after he and another male went horn hunting and split with the intent to meet back at their vehicle, according to a social media post by Wheeler’s daughter-in-law Sarah McClure.

McClure posted the information Monday.

Lake County Search and Rescue President Jared Bell said that at 10:30 p.m. Monday, he and nine LCSAR members combed the area overnight, in addition to assistance from Wheeler’s family members and friends.

Two Bear Air out of Whitefish was called in and flew overnight, he added.

At around 11 a.m. Tuesday, it was confirmed by Lake County Sheriff Don Bell that Wheeler’s body was discovered.

“We had about 50 people searching” with horses, quads and snowmobiles, Sheriff Bell said.

“It was a massive search.”

More information was not available at press time Tuesday, pending an investigation.

This is a developing story.