80-Year-Old Man Found Alive After Two Days Lost in Maya Jungle

Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo — An 80-year-old man who went missing for two days was found alive and suffering only from dehydration in the dense Maya jungle, authorities said Saturday.

Fermin Aguilar was located by a large search team that included government officials, family members, and local residents, according to the state Civil Protection agency.

“Thanks to the coordinated effort of government authorities, the invaluable participation of citizens, and the support of local landowners, Fermin Aguilar was found alive in the jungle of the municipality of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, where he had been lost for more than two days,” the agency said in a statement.

Aguilar was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation after being found dehydrated. Officials said his condition is not life-threatening.

The search operation involved the Quintana Roo Search Commission, the Mexican Army, the National Guard, the Quintana Roo State Prosecutor’s Office, the state Public Security Department, and canine units. A helicopter from Playa del Carmen was used to conduct aerial searches over the difficult terrain.

“We also thank the municipality of Playa del Carmen for providing the helicopter that assisted in the search efforts in this hard-to-access area,” officials added.