Missing hunter found alive

Jackson, Ala. (WALA) - A 19-year-old spent three days trapped in a hole while search teams combed the woods looking for him.

We're happy to report Wesley Weaver is alive and recovering at home.

Related article: Search is on for hole missing hunter fell into

Search for Missing Hunter: Map

When a search and rescue mission drags on for days, hope can become the only fuel to keep you going. Scott Weaver used up every ounce of hope he could muster during the search for his son, Wesley.

"You got your highs and your lows, you never find the kid, but you keep looking. Perseverance came through this time," Scott Weaver said.

Wesley Weaver was last seen Wednesday night leaving for a hunting trip.

Dozens of volunteers from throughout the area, as far as North Carolina, spent the last three days looking for him.

Wesley told rescuers he fell in a deep hole.

"He pulled himself out last night. Kept throwing his dog lead over the hole and finally hooked something that was solid enough to hook himself out," Scott said.

Scott said after his son climbed out of the hole, he slept. Brylon Goodman spotted him Sunday afternoon.

"We come back through, saw somebody on the road that looked like Wesley. I didn't know if it was him or not so we turned back around and it was him," Goodman said.

Wesley was a little dehydrated but safe, and his long, extended trip had finally come to an end.

"All I can you tell is, my man, don't ever give up. Don't ever give up. It can work out for ya. It did this time,” said Scott.

The family also plans to make sure that hole is covered up.

His grandfather joked that the family doesn't want to let him go out hunting any time soon.