CONTACT:
Conservation Officer Sgt. Matthew Holmes
603-788-4850
603-271-3361
November 4, 2026
Sargent’s Purchase, NH – On the evening of Tuesday, November 3, 2026, rescue personnel responded to the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail on Mt. Washington to assist two hikers caught by darkness.
Shortly after 5:00 p.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers were notified that Yahya Algazi, 18, and Jaden Green, 18, of Rochester, NY, were at the Lakes of the Clouds AMC Hut and in need of assistance. Upon speaking with Algazi, it was learned that the two were insufficiently prepared for their hike, to include not having lights. The two were directed to utilize an emergency shelter at the hut (which is closed for the season) and wait for rescuers to arrive.
At approximately 7:15 p.m., rescuers from the Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue Team (AVSAR) and a Conservation Officer began hiking to the hut. The first rescuers reached the hut at 9:14 p.m. Algazi and Green were warmed up and provided with food, lights, and extra clothing. At 10:08 p.m., the rescue party left the hut and began descending the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail back down the mountain.
At approximately 1:45 a.m. on the morning of November 4, the rescue party arrived safely at the Base Station of the Cog Railway. Everyone involved was happy to be out of the woods, and the hikers were grateful for the assistance.