A 7-year-old boy was found alone on Mount Fuji after his father and older brother left him behind while continuing their hike, authorities reported on Sunday. The incident occurred on Saturday during a family outing on Japan’s iconic mountain, where hiking conditions can be challenging.

Rescue teams located the boy unharmed, approximately 1,800 meters above sea level, after a search was initiated when the family realized he was missing. Local authorities described the boy as “tired but safe” when he was discovered.

The boy’s father and brother were reportedly attempting to retrieve their gear when they lost sight of him. Officials stated that the family had not intended to abandon the child but had underestimated the difficulty of the hike and the terrain.

The rescue operation involved both ground teams and drone surveillance as night fell, raising concerns for the boy’s safety. He was returned to his family after being checked by paramedics.

This incident highlights the importance of safety measures and communication during outdoor activities, particularly in high-risk areas like Mount Fuji. The popular destination attracts thousands of hikers annually, and officials often remind families to remain vigilant, especially with young children.

Authorities encourage all hikers to plan adequately and stay together to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

Source: news source