UPDATE: ASTs suspend PLB search pending further indications of distress - VFD Backcountry Rescue team returns home. 
UPDATE: Alaska State Troopers suspended search efforts early Saturday evening after receipt of a personal locator beacon activation five miles northwest of mile marker 32 of the Richardson Highway earlier in the day.
Valdez Fire Department Backcountry Search & Rescue personnel, an Alaska State Wildlife Trooper, and five volunteers utilized snowmachines to search a wide area around the reported position of the beacon signal. Vertical Solutions, a Valdez-based helicopter operator, also conducted an overflight while on a flightseeing tour in the area.
No signs of distress or fresh tracks in the snow were reported by either the ground or air response units. Responders also confirmed accountability for occupants of all vehicles parked in the area.
Per the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, no additional beacon signals were received from the PLB since the original activation. The PLB was of British origin, but is unregistered.
Additional details will be available shortly in a press release from the City of Valdez Public Information Office.
ORIGINAL POST: Valdez Fire Department responders are currently assisting the Alaska State Troopers in a search and rescue case north of Thompson Pass.
Rescue Coordination Center Anchorage received a personal locator beacon activation this morning approximately five miles northwest of mile marker 32 of the Richardson Highway.
If you are aware of anyone utilizing this area over the past 24 hours who cannot be accounted for, please contact Valdez Fire & Police Dispatch @ 907-835-4560.
Posted 2/11/2017
Allie Ferko, Public Information Officer
Cell (907) 200-7002
Address/Location
Valdez Police Department
212 Chenega Ave
Valdez, AK 99686
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 907-835-4560