Missing Hiker Search in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: What We Know

Location: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Timeline: July 20 – August 3, 2026
Missing Person: Artoun Gostantian, 37, from New Town, ND

What Happened? A Simple Timeline

1. July 20, 2026 – Artoun Gostantian’s family reports him missing. They last knew he was heading to the park’s North Unit.
2. Late July – Early August – Search teams begin looking for Artoun. His car is found parked at the North Unit.
3. August 3, 2026 (Morning) – Search crews are still actively looking. They’ve covered a huge area on foot and by vehicle.
4. August 3, 2026 (2:12 PM – UPDATE) – The National Park Service announces a body was recovered on Sunday.
   

   Important: The park has not confirmed if the body is Artoun’s. His family says they have not been notified yet.

The Search Efforts: By the Numbers

The Badlands Search and Rescue Service (BSRS) led the search. Here’s what they did:

• 64 miles searched on foot – that’s like walking from New York City to Philadelphia!
• 21 miles searched by vehicle
• 121 total hours of searching (over 5 full days non-stop)
• Searchers faced extreme heat – not shown in photos, but very real and dangerous

CALLOUT: IMPORTANT POINT
If you have ANY information, please call the Mountrail County Sheriff’s Office at:

(701) 628-2975

Even small details can help.

Who Is Involved?

What Is Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Think of it like a giant outdoor museum in the North Dakota badlands. It has:

• Rough, rocky terrain (steep hills, deep valleys)
• Wildlife like bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs
• Two main units: North Unit (where Artoun’s car was found) and South Unit
• Very hot summers and cold winters – weather can change fast

ELI5: Imagine a huge playground made of rocks, grass, and cliffs – beautiful but easy to get lost in if you’re not careful.

What We Still Don’t Know

• Is the recovered body Artoun’s? Not confirmed yet.
• What happened to him? Cause of death not released.
• Why was he in the park? Family hasn’t shared details publicly.
• When will the family be notified? That process takes time and care.

Summary

• Artoun Gostantian, 37, went missing after his car was found at Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s North Unit on July 20.
• Badlands Search and Rescue searched 85 miles over 121 hours in extreme heat.
• On August 3, the National Park Service confirmed a body was recovered Sunday.
• The body has NOT been identified – Artoun’s family has not been told it’s him.
• Call (701) 628-2975 if you know anything.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. Why hasn’t the park said if the body is Artoun’s?

A: Identifying a body takes time. Officials use dental records, DNA, or personal items. They wait until 100% sure before telling the family – out of respect and accuracy.

2. What is “Badlands Search and Rescue”?

A: A team of trained volunteers and professionals who search for lost or missing people in rough outdoor areas like the badlands. They know the land, weather, and how to search safely.

3. Why did the search take so long?

A: The park is huge, rocky, and hot. Searchers walk slowly, checking every trail, canyon, and hidden spot. 64 miles on foot in heat is exhausting and slow work.

4. Can I go help search?

A: No – please don’t go on your own. The terrain is dangerous, and untrained people can get lost too. Only trained teams should search. Instead, call the sheriff’s office with tips.

5. How can I support Artoun’s family?

A: Respect their privacy. Don’t speculate online. If you’re local, offer practical help (meals, childcare) quietly. Let officials do their job.

Final Thought:
This is a developing story. The most important thing now is giving the family space and letting officials complete their work. We’ll update as more facts are confirmed.

Source: KFYR News | Copyright 2026 KFYR. All rights reserved.