ALLENSTOWN, N.H. (AP) – Frustrated searchers conceded Wednesday that it’s getting more unlikely that they will find 70-year-old hunter Russell Bussiere alive.
“Extreme weather conditions during the past four days make it increasingly unlikely that Mr. Bussiere has survived,” read a Fish and Game Department statement.
Officials said they will continue a scaled down search in Bear Brook State Park today, after the fourth night since Russell Bussiere of Hooksett was reported missing Sunday.
Overnight temperatures have fallen into single digits and several inches of snow has fallen.
The department said volunteers will not be needed for Thursday’s search.
About 100 searchers who are experienced and trained in winter rescue were in the woods Wednesday with dog teams. An Army National Guard helicopter searched from the air. The helicopter and the trained teams will be used again on Thursday, the department said.
“Our search commanders and all of the participants in this incident are extremely frustrated and disappointed that we have been unable to locate Mr. Bussiere or find any clues as to his whereabouts,” said Col. Jeffrey Gray.
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