Four Trail Runners Rescued from Chiang Rai Forest After Getting Lost

CHIANG RAI — A major rescue operation concluded successfully on Sunday evening with the safe recovery of four trail runners who had become lost in the dense jungle of Doi Li Khai. The distress call was received around 7:00 PM on Friday, July 19, 2026, prompting an immediate response. Emergency teams, including the Nang Lae Municipality disaster prevention unit, the Narenthorn Chiang Rai Center, and the Saeng Kaew Photiyan Rescue Unit, joined forces to launch a swift search operation. The four athletes had begun their ascent from the lowlands, but rapidly deteriorating weather conditions, characterized by torrential rain and thick fog, obscured their vision and washed away trail markers, leaving them stranded. Nang Lae Mayor Suchart Somprasong established a command center and dispatched local guides familiar with the terrain to assist the rescue teams. Rescuers navigated treacherous, muddy, and steep mountain paths, carrying specialized high-altitude safety gear. A local dirt bike team also contributed to the search effort, aiding in covering ground more quickly. At 6:53 PM, the search party located the four missing runners, who were attempting to make their way out of the forest. The athletes were immediately checked by medical teams at the base camp and were confirmed to have sustained no injuries. Local authorities expressed their gratitude to all volunteers for their brave efforts during the challenging storm. Information Source: Chiang Rai Times