Fred Claassen entered the Hoover Wilderness from Twin Lakes on Thursday, July 31, 2003 for a short hiking trip to Crown Lake. He planned to traverse Mule and Burro passes and return to Twin Lakes cross-country via Matterhorn Pass and the Horse Creek drainage. Due back Monday, August 4th hikers reported seeing him last at Crown Lake on the afternoon of Friday August 1st. He has not been heard from since.

UPDATE (9/7/2010): We received word today from Fred's family that his remains were recovered on Saturday, 9/4/2010. Fred's backpack was spotted in June 2010 by a backpacker. Unfortunately, that person did not immediately come forward with the information. However, they did mention it to a friend who notified search & rescue personnel. Fred likely fell to his death while trying to make his way down a steep ledge. Our condolences & prayers are with his family.