According to multiple reports, Young resorted to drinking his own urine to survive and killed a rattlesnake that tried to bite him. He recited scripture to keep his spirits up and lit fires at night to stay warm. Young spent days under a cedar tree for shade and sleep.
On day four, Young reached an area where his text message for help was delivered to his son. A helicopter spotted Young in a hard-to-reach area north of the Valley and rescued him. Young's son Josh found him and sent a text message via satellite phone informing searchers.
I just burst into tears. I just burst into tears. And, you just, it’s just such a sense of relief, and it’s just overcome with emotion.
Young was found approximately six miles from where his rental car was spotted. Searchers heard distant, faint yells for help on April 20 but could not pinpoint the location due to wind and canyon terrain. Young's car was discovered on Forest Road 16, about 30 minutes from Black Canyon City.
His belongings, including his sleeping bag, were found in the car. Search crews encountered a mountain lion, a black bear, and difficult terrain. Young had survival training from his time in the Vietnam War and carried a compass, canteens, water purification pills, and lighters.
What they did for me - they don’t even know me. I understand my family, but these guys are doing this for anybody. They do this because they love their jobs.
According to Daily Mail - News, Lydia Young described bursting into tears upon hearing the news. According to Daily Mail - News, Mark Eric Young described the searchers as doing their job out of love. According to The Guardian - World, Mark Young described feeling inexpressible gratitude.
I’ve never felt so loved. My gratitude is inexpressible.