October 18, 2006
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CRATER LAKE, Ore. (AP) A break in the weather gave two helicopters a chance to join the search Tuesday for an 8-year-old Portland boy missing in the snow of Crater Lake National Park, but no clues to his disappearance were found, a spokesman said.
Meanwhile, the missing boys mother was to arrive at the park where Sammie Boehlke disappeared Saturday while hiking with his father, said search spokesman Rudy Evenson.
An Oregon Air National Guard helicopter equipped with an infrared sensor took part in the search, as did an observation helicopter that concentrated on the steep slope leading down to the volcanic lake at the crest of the Cascade Range, Evenson said. Neither found anything, and the infrared helicopter had to leave for another assignment.
Searchers still believe the boy could be alive within the search area, despite three nights in subfreezing temperatures at more than 7,000 feet elevation with six to eight inches of wet snow on the ground, Evenson said.
Right now we are focusing all our efforts on finding a missing 8-year-old in the identified search area, Evenson said. It is unusual in this park (for a search to go on so long). Typically search and rescues at Crater Lake National Park end in less time than this.
The boy and his father, Kenneth Boehlke, had been staying at Diamond Lake and went to Crater Lake for a hike, authorities said. On Saturday afternoon, they parked along Rim Drive near the Cleetwood Cove trailhead and the boy ran uphill into the woods, away from the lake. His father could not find him, and flagged down a passing car. Park staff mounted a search that evening.
The fathers family, the Boehlkes, and the mothers family, the Beckers, issued a statement: We know that some of the best search and rescue people in the Northwest and beyond are here around the clock. Those searching, both volunteers and professionals, are enduring rough conditions in the cold and wet snow. We are so thankful for their perseverance and expertise. We continue to hope for a good outcome, and we keep the faith that Sammie will be found.
The boy was dressed in cargo pants, a blue winter jacket, a long-sleeve green and black striped T-shirt, and red shoes.
http://www.newsreview.info/article/20061018/NEWS/61018002