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Adirondack Explorer posted an open question on Facebook asking "Adirondack solo hiking, Is it safe?"  https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1270287241764460

I replied with the following:

I am an avid solo hiker in the high peaks region along with the Catskills and I think the question really depends on the time of year, the hiker's skills, and what the hiker carries with them.  Late spring through early fall, there are so many people on the trails now that it's very difficult to go a day without seeing another hiking party, if not multiple.  With an early start, there is rarely a day where there isn't someone going where I just was and I know they're behind me.  At worst, I'm sure someone will be by within 24 hours.  Winter on the other hand is much less traveled (although I believe it's the best time of year to hike), so it's less likely to have someone behind me on my way out, but it's still more likely than not.

Winter though brings about more dangers, and extra things to worry about directly related to temperatures, weather, and things like deep snow and ice.  It requires specialized gear and generally heavier packs to carry it.  It is safer to not hike alone in the winter, without any doubt, but it's not unsafe to do it solo.

The use of a satellite device like the InReach devices by Garmin don't necessarily make it any safer.  A deadly accident or one where you are knocked unconscious in summer or winter won't be prevented by the device.  A major injury like a broken bone may allow you to get help quicker.  Having someone monitor at home and knowing when you should be out are just important, they can get help in sooner.  The way I look at the device I carry is that if the worst happens, they'll know where to look to find closure.

In the end, having the experience and skills to survive a night and carrying the proper equipment (10 essentials) are of the upmost importance.  Leaving a detailed plan and time estimates with a trusted friend so they can call in help if you're late.  Having and sticking to a turn around time.  Not hiking on an arbitrary schedule so you're not hiking in bad or deteriorating weather.  Being honest with yourself about your skills, and how you are doing `that` day and losing the ego so that you turn around before you get hurt.  Those are all things that apply to every hiker and will keep every hiker safe, solo or group.

We honestly don't know what happened to Leo.  There hasn't been enough in the press about where exactly he was found, or what the cause of death was.  It may have been the result of an accident, it may have been exhaustion from doing something more than he was capable `that day`.  The bad weather that came in the night he went missing didn't help any.  Whatever it was, it's tragic, and my thoughts are with his friends and family.  Solo hiking may have contributed to the tragedy, but I honestly don't believe it was the major cause.