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JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Teton County Search and Rescue has narrowed its search for a missing snowboarder to an avalanche-prone snowfield behind Grand Targhee Resort.
The search area for Lee Kidd of Driggs, Idaho, was narrowed after talking with witnesses who may have seen Kidd, 34, on Friday before he went missing, the Jackson Hole News & Guide reports (bit.ly/2hpHvVN).
"Our deputies conducted extensive interviews and investigations and the conclusion is that we are looking for him in the Grand Targhee area," sheriff's Sgt. Matt Carr said.
Kidd's season pass was last scanned at 10:45 a.m. Friday when he boarded a lift. He had mentioned to friends that he wanted to explore the backcountry, but he left his transceiver, shovel and other backcountry equipment at home, along with his cellphone, Carr said.
He was reported missing Friday afternoon when he failed to show up for work at one of the resort's kitchens.
The search has been challenging and expansive, officials said.
"This is truly a needle in a haystack scenario," Carr said. "There is a ton of area back there."
A foot of snow and high winds have covered any tracks, and stormy weather limited a helicopter search to about an hour Saturday. The snowfield rescuers are focusing on has a large cornice prone to avalanche and a 500-foot cliff. Teams were unable to search the area thoroughly Monday.
Teams planned to search again Tuesday, Carr said.
"We have dogs available," Carr said. "They would be our first line of use (on the ground) if we could bring them in safely."
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Information from: Jackson Hole (Wyo.) News And Guide, http://www.jhnewsandguide.com
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