Missing dirt biker found safe in Utah County


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PLEASANT GROVE — A man was rescued after spending a chilly night in the mountains east of Pleasant Grove. John Parker lost his way back while dirt biking Monday evening.

"My teeth are still chattering," Parker said after being rescued. "It was pretty cold."

Sgt. Spencer Cannon of the Utah County Sheriff's Office said Parker went for a day ride Monday but did not return. He was last heard from around 8 p.m. Search and rescue crews plus an AirMed helicopter began looking for him Tuesday morning.

Parker said he lost control of his motorcycle on slick rocks Monday and crashed down a waterfall while trying to find a trail down the mountain.

He finally parked his motorcycle for the night.

"I was exhausted. I just went to a big field where I knew I'd stand out, and tried to go to sleep," he said.

Tuesday morning he noticed the helicopter overhead and waved. The aircraft picked him up and took him back to relatives waiting nearby at the search site.

His mother, Ruth Parker, said family members had been praying for his safe return.

"We just thank the Lord for watching over him," she said.

John Parker offered some advice.

"Don't ride alone. Get that cell phone charged up," he said.

Compiled by: Linda Williams

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