A 71-year-old backpacker is among three men reported missing this week by sheriff’s departments in Northern California.
Michael Moore, subject of a search in Tuolumne County. The dog was found safe. (Tuolumne County sheriff’s office)
Michael Moore, Tuolumne County: Moore’s wilderness permit said he planned a solo hike Aug. 16 from Gianelli Trailhead to Powell Lake, about 2½ miles in the Emigrant Wilderness. His car was parked at that trailhead, but his dog and his backpack were both found in the opposite direction of his intended route. The dog, found Aug. 17, was not injured.
In a report Tuesday, Aug. 20, asking for the public’s help, the Tuolumne County sheriff’s office said Moore, 71, is 5-foot-6 and has shoulder-length gray hair and a beard. He may be wearing denim cutoffs or a black ballcap.
Julio Gutierrez, Butte County: The 22-year-old Oroville man was reported missing Sunday, Aug. 18, after failing to return from an event in Biggs. Deputies saw evidence of a vehicle crash on Larkin Road along the Thermalito Afterbay; his car was found submerged, but he was not in it, the sheriff’s report said. The continuing search includes the Feather River between the afterbay and Gridley.
Michael Henry, Plumas County: The 52-year-old Greenville man was reported missing Aug. 19, the sheriff’s office said; a relative said the last contact was Aug. 1. He drives a brown Chevy van and is thought to have his dog with him. More information and a contact number can be found at the sheriff’s Facebook page.
In Southern California, a search for a missing hiker ended with the rescue Aug. 18 of Ki Soo Yang, a 77-year-old man who became separated from his party the previous day near Mount Waterman.
