News Release

Yosemite National Park Identifies Remains of Alexander Sevier

Date: October 18, 2017

Member of U.S. Navy last seen in park on May 3, 2017
 

Yosemite National Park Rangers have positively identified the remains of Alexander Joseph Sevier, a visitor who was last seen in Yosemite Valley on May 3, 2017. Sevier, a member of the U.S. Navy was staying in Housekeeping Camp and was witnessed going out on day hikes each day during his visit. When he was reported missing, Park Rangers, with the aid of search dogs and a CHP helicopter, launched an extensive search looking for him. The search has been ongoing.

 

At the end of August, human remains were discovered near the banks of the Merced River below Vernal Fall. The remains were sent out for DNA testing, and were confirmed to be the remains of Sevier.

 

Sevier's family has been notified.

 

Yosemite National Park worked with several agencies during the investigation and would like to acknowledge and thank the National Park Service Special Agents, the United States Navy, Special Agents from the Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS), Mariposa County Sheriffs Office,.the California Highway Patrol, YODOGS (trained search dogs), and Forensic Specialists from the California Department of Justice Bureau of Forensic Services.for their assistance during the search and investigation.