More Information Released On Missing Grand Teton Teenager

More information has been released regarding the teenager who was reported missing in Grand Teton National Park.

Yesterday, we reported 16-year-old Fauna Jackson was reported missing on the east side of US Highway 89, just outside Triangle X Ranch. We also shared a contact for people to call in case they have any word of her whereabouts. Jackson was last seen at approximately 8:30 a.m. by coworkers.

Now, Grand Teton officials have released new information on Ms. Jackson, including her activities prior to disappearing and the activity of search crews in the park. According to a Grand Teton press release, Jackson was in the park as a part of Groundwork USA, a community and youth service environmental outfit:

Jackson was last seen by her coworkers at approximately 8:45 a.m. near their work location in the park, on the east side of US Highway 89, southwest of Triangle X Ranch. According to statements by her coworkers Jackson did not return from a short bathroom break.

Rangers immediately did a hasty search of the area, with no evidence of Jackson. Ground search crews, aerial reconnaissance by an interagency helicopter, dog search teams, and vehicle and engine road patrols were initiated. Missing person posters were also distributed throughout the area.

The Wyoming Civil Air Patrol will assist the investigation with anticipated aerial patrols tonight. The aerial patrols will use forward looking infrared imaging (FLIR) to detect sources emitting heat on the ground. Additional crews will arrive early Friday morning to assist with ground and vehicle searches.

The Groundwork USA participants were conducting trail work to assist in a trail reroute project. Groundwork USA is a national organization that assists to revitalize neighborhoods and transform communities. Teams are created to address environmental issues, enhance career skills, and share environmental awareness through conservation and restoration work.

This youth crew of approximately 20 members has been working in the park for the past week. They have assisted with trail, vegetation and historic structure projects.

More than 60 individuals from Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest, Teton County Search and Rescue and Teton County Sheriff’s Office have been involved in search management and activities.

Jackson was last seen wearing tan pants, a white hat, and a long-sleeve green shirt emblazoned with “Find Your Park” and “Groundwork USA.”

If you have any information on Ms. Jackson’s whereabouts, please call 307-739-3517.

UPDATE: Jackson has been found by search crews. Read the full story here.

About Sean Reichard

Sean Reichard is the editor of Yellowstone Insider and author of Yellowstone Insider For Families 2017.

Check Also

Yellowstone National Park South Entrance, Yellowstone visitation

2024 Yellowstone free admission days unveiled

While we don’t expect any of you to change your 2024 travel plans, the National …