SAR crews will be out searching the Middle Fork trailhead area near North Bend for a missing Russian man who was last seen on Thursday, September 14, 2017 around 5PM.
Crews using ATV’s, horses and trackers began searching for the very lightly dressed 58-year old on Friday evening, September 15th. He was wearing only shorts and a t-shirt.
Sergei Cherepov was in the Seattle region on business (possibly an engineer or pilot) and was visiting Goldmyer Hot Springs with two companions. He became separated from his friends on the hike out from the springs when he used the trail and the companions used the road. The three men were supposed to meet up at their car, but Cherepov did not arrive.
According to King County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Cindi West, Cherepov was spotted alone on the trail by other hikers Thursday evening.
He is about 5’10” tall and has a fresh wound on the right side of his head that is covered with a bandage. Sgt. West said Cherepov had bumped his head the day before he went missing. She said searchers think he took a wrong turn and became lost deep in the Middle Fork. He had no food or water with him.
Sgt. West stated, “We will continue the search until we find him.”
The photo below is exactly what Cherepov was wearing and was taken of him on Thursday leaving the trailhead parking area. If you’ve seen him you’re asked to call KCSO at 206-296-3311 or 911.
