Search Update for Missing Hiker
January 5, 2026 – Placer County Sheriff’s Office officials report that the search operations continued on Sunday despite challenging weather conditions.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team and Marine Unit are actively searching, alongside the CAL FIRE NEU / Placer County Fire Department Tactical Rescue Team. Crews remain focused on thorough and methodical search efforts in and around the river corridor.
Air assets, including drones, are being utilized as weather conditions allow. CAL OES FIRIS was unable to fly overnight due to the weather; however, conditions will continue to be closely monitored, and FIRIS will be deployed as soon as it is safe to do so.
At this time, there is no evidence indicating anything other than an accidental incident, though all possibilities continue to be evaluated.
We continue to receive many offers from community members who want to help, and we truly appreciate that support. For everyone’s safety, it is best for this search to be conducted by trained professionals using specialized equipment and the latest technology. This ensures clear communication, consistent location tracking, and coordinated operations, especially in an area with no cell phone reception.
We appreciate the support as search efforts continue.
Source & photos: Placer County Sheriff’s Office