Into the Wild: Jim Gallien's Actions

Jim Gallien's Reaction

• Jim Gallien immediately connected the headline of a young man's death to Alex, the hitchhiker he previously dropped off at the trailhead.
• He quickly contacted the state troopers upon seeing the news.

Gallien's Call to Authorities

• After reading about the incident in the newspaper, Gallien called the state troopers to provide information regarding Alex's identity.

Evidence Linking McCandless to the Incident

• Gallien supplied the troopers with specific details about Alex's gear that were not mentioned in the newspaper.
• His name was found in the diary, and Gallien recognized Alex in accompanying photographs.

Westerberg's Discovery of Alex's Death

• Westerberg learned about McCandless's death while listening to the Paul Harvey show, which included details that resonated with his knowledge of Alex.
• Following the broadcast, Westerberg contacted the state troopers to verify the news.

News Coverage of Alex

• Major newspapers across the country prominently featured stories about the deceased hiker, including excerpts from his diary.

Westerberg's Contribution to Identification

• Westerberg located McCandless's W-4 tax forms, which contained his social security number, aiding authorities in the identification process.

Sam's Role

• Sam, Walt McCandless's eldest child from his first marriage, received the call about Chris's death.
• He was responsible for communicating the news to his father and stepmother.