Search on for missing Big Lake man

WILLOW — Alaska State Troopers are searching for a Big Lake man who wandered off from a cabin in the Bud Lake area.

Trooper Spokeswoman Beth Ipsen said the lake is nine miles west of Sheep Creek Lodge.

The man, Gary Swanson, 44, was reported missing at 6:52 a.m., today. His family searched for him on a four-wheeler before calling troopers. He was last seen at 5 p.m. Thursday.

So far, Ipsen said, troopers have searchers on the ground, as well as a police dog, and a helicopter in the air with a spotter from the Alaska Mountain Rescue Group. She said troopers might choose to extend the search.

“We've been in contact with (local volunteer search group) MAT-SAR and they may get involved here next,” Ipsen said.