Virginia Taetzch death will be sure Pyramid Mountain, Montville — Hiker found after multi-day search operation, with one survivor rescued during same mission.
The search for two hikers who went missing during an outing at Pyramid Mountain in Montville ended after authorities located both individuals following a large-scale rescue operation.
Authorities confirmed that Virginia Taetzch was found deceased at the scene after search teams combed the area. She had gone hiking alongside John Higgins, 77, both residents of Pompton Plains.
The operation began after officers discovered an unattended vehicle in the Pyramid Mountain parking lot late Monday night. This triggered an extensive search effort involving multiple emergency agencies.
Search crews resumed operations the following morning with more than 30 responders deployed. During the search, John Higgins was found alive inside the park around 11:40 a.m. He was immediately transported to Morristown Medical Center for medical treatment.
Rescue teams continued searching afterward and later recovered Virginia Taetzch, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials described the operation as a coordinated multi-agency response, noting that one life was saved while the other resulted in a tragic loss. The cause of death has not yet been released as investigations continue.
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