Jackson County, Oregon – A 63-year-old man was found dead near Wagner Butte after a hiking trip, prompting a multi-day search and recovery effort in steep winter conditions.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 3:30 p.m. Sunday to a report of a deceased adult male near the summit of Wagner Butte, located outside Talent. The man was identified as Michael James Beagle, 63, of Central Point.
Authorities said Beagle was located at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in steep, mountainous terrain. The Jackson County Medical Examiner determined the death was the result of a medical event. No suspicious circumstances were observed, and officials said there is no ongoing investigation.
The recovery operation required assistance from Jackson County Search and Rescue deputies and volunteers. Crews worked into the evening Sunday amid snow, ice and an approaching winter storm to ensure other hikers in the area exited safely as weather conditions worsened.
On Monday, Feb. 16, Search and Rescue teams returned to the mountain and spent about 10 hours navigating more than 2,000 feet of elevation gain over a 10-mile round trip in snow and strong winds before recovering Beagle and transporting him to a local funeral home.
Officials noted that more than 100 trained volunteers support Jackson County Search and Rescue operations.
The rugged terrain and winter weather serve as reminders for hikers — including students and young outdoor enthusiasts — to prepare for rapidly changing mountain conditions.
There is no further information available.
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