UPDATE: Ron Dailey, the hunter who went missing for nearly 15 days in the Fresno County mountains, has shared his harrowing survival story, revealing how faith and resourcefulness kept him alive. Dailey, who embarked on a day trip on October 13, 2023, found himself in a life-or-death struggle after veering off a familiar trail.
Dailey states, “I wasn’t lost, but I needed to be found.” After confirming he was on the right path around noon, a brief detour led him onto an off-roading track unsuitable for his vehicle. Unable to navigate back, Dailey was trapped as snow began to fall that night, forcing him to spend the first night in his truck.
As heavy snow accumulated, Dailey realized he was stranded, stating, “Oh, my goodness, there’s two feet of snow on me.” With food supplies dwindling and no way to signal for help, Dailey relied on his wife’s thoughtful preparations. He crafted makeshift insulation from gloves and a towel, using an emergency blanket to try to attract attention.
By November 1, Dailey hadn’t eaten in five days and knew he had to act. “Deer season’s ending on Sunday. There’s going to be a ton of people up here,” he thought. Early the next morning, he prayed for guidance and began his arduous trek to safety.
For nearly 12 hours, Dailey navigated the treacherous terrain, struggling with the thin air and physical exhaustion. Just as daylight began to fade, he spotted headlights. “Oh my God,” he exclaimed, realizing a group of hunters had found him. His prayers had been answered.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Dailey noted that he lost approximately 25 pounds, surviving on less than 100 calories a day. He expressed gratitude for the support of his family, stating, “I never lost faith.” Although he plans to seek physical therapy and mental health support, Dailey has made a life-altering decision: “I’m done hunting,” he declared.
This remarkable survival story underscores the importance of preparation and resilience in the face of life-threatening circumstances. As Dailey recovers, he hopes to share his experience and inspire others to prioritize safety when exploring the outdoors.
Stay tuned for more updates as Dailey’s recovery progresses and he reflects on his incredible journey back to life.
