MOUNT ELBRUS, Russia — Littleton police officer and National Guardsman Steven Beare went missing two days ago in a snowstorm somewhere on Mount Elbrus in Russia according to his wife, Olivia Beare.
“Search and rescue was called on (Sunday) after Steven failed to return to the base camp,” Olivia Beare said. “Unfortunately, the weather has kept SAR from continuing their search and they are on hold.”
In addition, Olivia Beare has hired a private group for search and rescue, including two helicopters.
Olivia Beare said her husband’s plan was to solo climb Mount Elbrus starting on June 14, summit on June 15 and return to base camp on June 16.
Heavy snow hit the mountain during that time frame and Steven Beare did not report back.
“Steven is a steadfast, resourceful, and efficient mountain climber,” Olivia Beare said.
The Littleton Police Department issued a statement on Wednesday:
“We are keeping Officer Beare and his family in our thoughts and prayers. Steven is a highly-respected officer for the LPD and all of us are hopeful he will be located quickly. Through this difficult time, the employees of the department are supporting his wife, Olivia, and their family.”
“When circumstances appear hopeless, you fight through and win, no matter what,” Chief Doug Stephens said in the statement. “That’s what cops do and I am confident that Steven is doing that now.”
Steven Beare posted a photo from the plane on his way to Mount Elbrus.
Mountain guide Rolfe Oostra with 360 Expeditions was on Mount Elbrus on June 14 when the snowstorm hit. His team did not summit.
Mount Elbrus is at 18,510 feet and is the highest mountain in Russia and Europe. It’s in the Caucasus Mountains in southern Russia.
The Beare family is accepting donations to assist with the rescue.