Schroon, NY (WRGB) — A missing hiker reported on the Crane Pond Trail in the town of Schroon was found dead after a multi-agency search, New York State Police said.
At about 12:30 p.m. Feb. 24, 2026, State Police were notified of a missing hiker on the Crane Pond Trail. Investigators determined Theodore S. Troth, 51, of The Villages, Florida, began renting a cabin at Rowe’s Adirondack Cabins on Route 9 in the town of Schroon on Jan. 25, 2026.
Troth was last seen Feb. 19, 2026, leaving the cabin to go hiking on the Crane Pond Trail. On Feb. 24, 2026, the cabin owner became concerned when Troth failed to check out as scheduled. After going to the cabin and finding Troth was not there, the owner notified authorities.
A coordinated search effort was established involving the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Forest Rangers and State Police. State Police deployed K-9 and Unmanned Aerial Systems units, while Forest Rangers used snowmobiles to help cover the terrain.
At about 6:24 p.m. Feb. 24, 2026, Forest Rangers located Troth at the south end of Oxshoe Pond, accessible from the Crane Pond Trailhead. Troth was found dead, and the scene showed no signs of foul play.
The Essex County Coroner’s Office responded and requested removal of the body. Troth was transported to Glens Falls Hospital for an autopsy. The date and time of the autopsy have not been determined.
The investigation remains ongoing.