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Body of Space Guardian recovered at Rocky Mountain National Park Thursday

Lucas Macaj
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, Colo. — The body of a Space Guardian from Colorado Springs was recovered at Rocky Mountain National Park Thursday.

According to the park, 23-year-old Lucas Macaj's body was recovered on Mills Glacier near the base of Lamb's Slide.

Rangers say the initial investigation indicates that Macaj took a significant fall, and recovery operations took place by helicopter. His body was flown to a landing zone in the park, and he was transferred to the Boulder County Coroner's Office.

Macaj, a Space Guardian at Schriever Space Force Base (SFB), was reported overdue Sunday night after attempting to summit Longs Peak.

WATCH: Colorado Springs Space Guardian missing in Rocky Mountain National Park

According to Schriever SFB, Macaj was with the 8th Combat Training Squadron, which is part of Space Delta 8. The commander of Space Delta 8 sent News5 the following statement:

"Space Delta 8 is a family and we have lost one of our own. I extend my deepest personal condolences to family, friends and teammates who will be grieving through their loss. We will make every effort to ensure those within our team grieving this loss have full access to the trained helping agencies available."
Col. David A. Pheasant, Space Delta 8 commander

Schriever SFB says Macaj jointed the Space Force in August 2023 as an interservice transfer from the U.S. Marine Corps.

Macaj's cause of death will be released at a later time by the Boulder County Coroner's Office.
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