January 31, 2025 – Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Sunday, January 26, 2025, Malachi Luis Garcia, was separated from his group at Mountain High Resort and became missing. 

On Tuesday, January 28, after an extensive search by LASD Air Rescue 5 and numerous Search and Rescue personnel, Emergency Services Detail (ESD) personnel spotted fresh footprints in the snow and followed the trail until it disappeared into the dirt-covered ground. 

As they prepared to lower ESD Deputy Cheshier to the ground, they noticed movement nearby. Upon closer inspection, they confirmed it was the missing snowboarder, located approximately four miles from the resort.

ESD successfully hoisted the snowboarder onto AIR-5, the Department’s air rescue helicopter. Despite being dressed only in a sweatshirt and snowboard pants, Mr. Garcia had no reported injuries. 

This successful rescue underscores the dedication and skill of LASD personnel.

View video here.

Source: Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department