A California woman who had been missing for 12 days was found alive “severely dehydrated and emaciated,” the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office said.
Esmeralda Marie Pineda, 24, was rescued on Friday at the top of a river canyon in the vicinity of the Yuba River, north of Sacramento, the sheriff’s office said.
Police found Esmeralda Marie Pineda after she has been missing for 12 days in the vicinity of the Yuba River and Sweetland Creek in Nevada City, Calif., Sept. 6, 2024.
Nevada County Sheriff’s Office
Pineda required immediate medical attention and was transported to a hospital for treatment after being airlifted off the canyon by California Highway Patrol.
Pineda was reported missing on Aug. 26 after last being seen at a mining claim camp in Nevada City, California, according to the sheriff’s office.
The area was “treacherous” and required skilled Nevada County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue volunteers to rappel in and out of the canyon to look for her.
“The Sheriff’s Office and our search and rescue volunteers covered extensive ground throughout our search, and we are thankful today to find her alive,” said NCSO Sergeant Dustin Moe.
The extent of her condition and injuries is unknown.
The Sheriff’s office in California recently made headlines after successfully locating a missing woman who had been lost for 12 days in a treacherous area. The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was reported missing by her family after she failed to return from a hiking trip in a remote part of the state.
The search and rescue operation was launched immediately after the woman was reported missing, with teams of trained professionals combing the rugged terrain in search of any sign of her whereabouts. Despite the challenging conditions and harsh weather, the Sheriff’s office remained determined to find the missing woman and bring her to safety.
After 12 long days of searching, the Sheriff’s office finally located the woman in a remote area, where she had been surviving on limited supplies and sheer determination. The woman was reportedly dehydrated and exhausted but otherwise in good health, thanks to her resourcefulness and survival skills.
The successful rescue of the missing woman is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Sheriff’s office and their commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents in their jurisdiction. The Sheriff’s office has since issued a statement expressing their relief and gratitude for the safe return of the missing woman, and reminding hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to always be prepared and stay vigilant when exploring remote areas.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being well-prepared when venturing into the wilderness, as even experienced hikers can find themselves in dangerous situations. It also highlights the crucial role that law enforcement agencies play in conducting search and rescue operations, often putting their own lives at risk to save others.
As we celebrate the successful rescue of the missing woman, let us also take this opportunity to thank and commend the Sheriff’s office for their tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the community. Their dedication and professionalism have undoubtedly saved lives and brought comfort to families in times of crisis.
