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California man dies after he was injured on Katahdin hike
WMTW • • nation
Key Points:
- Bert Peter Goris, 64, of Colton, California, died after being injured while hiking Katahdin on September 14; he was airlifted off the mountain but pronounced dead upon arrival at Millinocket Municipal Airport.
- Goris was found incapacitated with a leg injury on the Hunt Trail near York Valley, where severe weather conditions included gusts over 35 mph, wind chills near 20°F, rain, and cloud cover.
- Fellow hikers provided first aid and emergency shelter before calling 911; rescue teams, including the Maine Army National Guard, conducted an airlift evacuation.
- Goris had registered as a northbound Appalachian Trail thru-hiker and reached the summit before descending; he was last seen asking for directions and advice on clothing due to the harsh weather.
- Baxter State Park officials emphasize the rapid deterioration of weather on Katahdin’s tableland and advise hikers to carry winter-grade gear, emergency shelter, food, and water when attempting the summit.
