Omo Ranch Road Search & Rescue 

February 23, 2026 – Amador County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., Amador County Sheriff’s Office received a request to assist the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office with a rescue of two stranded motorists on Omo Ranch Road approximately 3 miles from Highway 88. Initial information provided was the two subjects were stuck in a semi-truck on Omo Ranch Road and had spent the previous night inside the semi-truck to keep out of the elements. However, by the second day fuel in the truck was getting low, they began running out of food and water, and they were in need of rescue.

With weather conditions deteriorating, Amador County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Coordinators deployed our Snowcat, Command and Control Team, as well as again reached out to PG&E for their assistance with the rescue. Again, without hesitation, PG&E answered the call deploying their Snowcat with two Snowcat Operators. The team made their way to Cook’s Station, where they had room to operate, and deployed both Snowcats, consisting of the two PG&E Snowcat Operators, one Amador County Sheriff’s Office SAR Deputy and one Amador County Sheriff’s Office SAR Coordinator Sergeant, at 7:30 P.M. An Amador County Sheriff’s Office SAR Coordinator Sergeant remained at Cook’s Station, in the winter command rescue vehicle, to monitor progress and handle additional resources if needed.

The conditions were more hospitable, though there was heavy snowfall, high winds and approximately three to four feet of snow at times, the team traversed the three miles in approximately 30 minutes locating the stranded subjects. Both subjects were cold but in good condition and were subsequently loaded into the warmth and safety of the Snowcats and transported back to Cook’s Station. Both subjects denied needing medical attention and were transported off of the mountain by the Amador County Sheriff’s Office SAR Deputy to shelter.

Again, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to PG&E and their staff for their community dedication, partnership, and unwavering response to assist when asked. Amador County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and SAR staff remain active in responding to those in need of assistance and will continue to answer the call. Proud to Serve, Ready to Protect!

Source & photos: Amador County Sheriff’s Office