Missing mountain biker found after 12 hour search in the Cleveland Natl. Forest

NEWS, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts: Lt. Jeff Hallock, 714.904.7042, JHallock@ocsd.org; Emily Osterberg, 714.647.1840, EOsterberg@ocsd.org

Missing Mountain Biker Located After 12-Hour Overnight Search in Cleveland National Forest

CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – (August 31, 2014) – On Sunday, August 31, 2014, Search & Rescue personnel from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s Reserve Bureau located a missing mountain biker who was lost in the Cleveland National Forest off Ortega Highway, approximately ten (10) miles east of the San Juan Capistrano city limits. The missing mountain biker, a 49 year old male from Burbank, was located at 8:00 a.m. this morning after an overnight search by Search & Rescue personnel and Sheriff’s Department air support. The mountain biker was located uninjured with minor scrapes and cuts.

On Saturday, August 30, 2014 at approximately 12:00 p.m., the missing mountain biker became separated from his riding partner as they rode San Juan Trail from the Blue Jay Campground to the Ortega Fire Station. After searching for several hours, the missing mountain biker’s partner contacted the Sheriff’s Department and a search was immediately initiated. Approximately 10-15 Sheriff’s Department Search & Rescue personnel searched on foot throughout the night with support from Sheriff’s Air Support.

The missing mountain biker was eventually located this morning on foot in an area off the trail, approximately three (3) miles east of the Ortega Fire/Ranger Station. He was evaluated and treated by Orange County Fire Authority paramedics.

The Sheriff’s Department recommends people take necessary precautions when engaging in outdoor recreational activities in rural areas of the county. It is always recommended to travel in groups, provide itineraries and an expected time of return, bring a communication device and always carry a flashlight, even if you do not expect to be out after dark. Preparation for your selected activity will increase your safety in the event of an emergency situation.

NOTE: Orange County Sheriff’s Department Search & Rescue personnel are reserve deputy sheriffs who volunteer countless hours each year to search operations throughout the county.

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