Multi-agency search and rescue teams respond to fatal incident
LARAMIE (WNE) — On Friday, May 29, at approximately 7:47 p.m., Albany County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the Falls Overlook area on Forest Service Road 307 after receiving a 911 text message requesting assistance for an individual who was unconscious and experiencing difficulty breathing.
Due to the remote location in the Snowy Range of the Medicine Bow National Forest west of Centennial and lack of cellular service, emergency communication was conducted through text messaging, according to a Saturday Facebook post by the ACSO.
Deputies responded immediately and requested assistance from Albany County Sheriff Search and Rescue, Lifeline Air Medical and Classic Air Medical.
While en route, deputies received information regarding a second 911 text message from a different phone number advising that the individual was no longer breathing. CPR had been in progress for approximately 10 minutes, and the individual was trapped in the river. Based on the updated information, the ACSO requested activation of additional rescue resources, including a water rescue response.
Upon arrival, deputies equipped with high-angle rescue gear located the hiking party and learned that Michael Werkeiser, 56, had slipped while descending steep terrain into a narrow crevice, falling into Middle Fork Little Laramie River. The creek was flowing rapidly in the area, and it is believed Werkeiser sustained a head injury during the fall, rendering him unconscious.
A member of the hiking group immediately entered the water in an attempt to save Werkeiser and remained with him in the creek until emergency responders arrived.
Personnel from the ACSO High Angle Rescue Team, Albany County Search and Rescue, Laramie Fire Department, and Centennial Volunteer Fire Department coordinated a complex rescue operation. Responders rappelled approximately 30 feet to reach and recover both individuals.
EMS evaluated both subjects, and Werkeiser was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The other subject refused medical treatment and was released.
This story was published on June 3, 2026.
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