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Coroner says lightning strike caused the death of 2 hunters in Colorado Mountains

CONEJOS, Colo. (KROD) -- Two hunters who went missing in the Rio Grande National Forest died from a lightning strike, according to the Conejos County coroner.

Family says Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko went missing on Sept. 11 as strong storms moved through the area. Our partners at 9News report that on Sept. 13, deputies with the Conejos County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) were sent to the Rio De Los Pinos Trailhead to try to locate the two men.

The CCSO stated that crews conducted searches using air operations, multi-county and state ground teams, dog teams, drone teams, ATVs, and local volunteers.

According to Andrew's aunt, Lynne Runkle, the two men were found deceased by Colorado Search and Rescue on Sept. 18.

Janet Oravetz from 9News reports that the men were found in a remote area roughly two miles away from the trailhead.

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Celeste Springer

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