A sad addendum to Jared’s contributor entry.

After summiting Oregon’s Mount Jefferson on July 24, 2026 Jared was witnessed by two climbers falling down the peak’s west face according to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office. The two climbers who witnessed the incident told the sheriff personnel that an unidentified man had fallen near Red Saddle and disappeared into the Milk Creek drainage. Subsequently an Oregon Army National Guard helicopter searched the area. Jared’s backpack was found on the west side of the summit. Based on witness accounts and the location, authorities said Empey’s fall was not survivable. Jared’s remains have not been located.

Jared left behind his wife Steffanie and eight children. Steffanie and Jared were awaiting another baby due in February of 2026. Jared was a devoted husband, loving father who loved his family and mountain climbing. His young sons often climbed with him on impressive journeys to remote summits in Idaho’s backcountry. Rest in peace Jared.

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Jared is an Idaho native originally from Idaho Falls, but now lives in Kuna. He discovered his love for hiking and climbing after the tragic loss of his oldest son in 2017. As part of many hiking, snowshoe, and climbing adventures, Jared is often accompanied by Pete the Cat as a tribute to his son. Jared’s adventures often take him to the Boise Mountains and Soldier Mountains with occasional adventures throughout the Pioneers, Lost Rivers, Lemhis, and Sawtooths. On easier climbs, his sons often go in tow. When not climbing, Jared is often looking for unexplored routes and gardening.