A potential nightmare was resolved for a local family on Thursday, Nov. 17.

Jason and Melissa McAlister and their two youngest children, reported missing from their residence on Old Wynoochee Road north of Montesano Nov. 15, were discovered alive and healthy by a hunter on Nov. 17.

“Jason McAlister explained to deputies that he and his wife had taken their two youngest kids and planned on driving up into Mason County to sightsee,” said Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office Chief Criminal Deputy Steve Shumate. “They approached an area on a logging road believed to be the 2365 line (in Mason County) and saw a dead tree that had fallen and was partially blocking the roadway. Jason had his family get out of their vehicle, and while he tried to drive around the tree their vehicle became stuck.”

Because the van had plenty of fuel, and the family was prepared with clothing and some water, they spent Tuesday night in the vehicle and attempted to walk out of the area Wednesday. They soon became “turned around” and decided to return to the vehicle and stay another night. “Jason explained that their spirits were high due to listening to the radio and hearing the search efforts that were going on,” said Shumate.

The hunter, apparently out for the late rifle buck opener, spotted the family as they again tried to walk out of the area. The hunter called 911 to report the find and drove the family to the Matlock Store, where they were met by aid personnel deputies from Grays Harbor and Mason counties. Shumate said the area the McAlisters were found is about a 30-minute drive north of the Matlock Store.

Aid personnel checked out the family and they were in good health. Grays Harbor Deputies then transported the McAlisters to be reunited with family. WDFW was going to attempt to locate the McAlister’s vehicle with the assistance of the hunter who had found them.

“We want to thank all of the law enforcement agencies, as well as the many other organizations and citizens who helped with this search,” said Shumate. “We also want to thank the media for getting the information out regarding the missing family. The hunter was already aware of the missing family due to the media coverage and knew exactly who the McAlisters were when he saw them.”

On Nov. 15, the McAlister’s two school-aged children were taken back to the Montesano School Bus garage after their parents were not at the bus stop for drop off. A search ensued with multiple agencies assisting.