Michael Von Gortler

Entered by Joss Leal

Case Details

Found Deceased Cause of Death: Accident - Fall

The bodies of 53-year-old Michael Von Gortler, and his 20-year-old daughter Makana, were found 1 mile from the summit of Mount Missouri on the northeast side, 500 feet above the main trail. The bodies were found about 5 days after the two were reported missing by family members.

Michael and Makana set out on June 22, 2011 for Mount Missouri, traversing the Missouri Gulch Trail – about 3 miles from Missouri Mountain – and died sometime between June 22nd, and June 27th.

Chaffee County’s coroner conducted an autopsy; results indicated that both Michael and his daughter Makana died from blunt trauma injuries to the head and neck; the injuries came from some type of fall.

The County coroner said that they,

“…can’t determine what time of day the fall [happened] and that it may never be clear the details surrounding the fall.”

Search and rescuers covered 800 square miles attempting to locate the two, and spotted their bodies while a helicopter was dropping off two search teams.

Distinguishing Marks

Not Available

Profession / Education

Investigative Details

Foul Play Suspected: Unknown / Undisclosed
Suicide Suspected: Unknown / Undisclosed
Cause of Death: Accident - Fall

Significant Dates

Reported Missing: Monday, June 27, 2011 (14 years ago)
Date Found: Saturday, July 2, 2011 (14 years ago)

Points of Interest

POIs

Missouri Mountain Trailhead

Last Known Location

1 Mile from the Summit of Missouri Mountain, Northeast Side, 500' Above the Main Trail

Body Found

Viewers since 1/2/2024

Monday, January 8, 2024 (1 year ago)

Missing NPF Public Identification Number (MPID) 9994

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