A 16-year-old girl who went missing Sunday while hiking with her dog in Northern California has been found safe after spending a night in subzero temperatures, authorities said Monday.
The Plumas County Sheriff's Office said the boy's mother dropped her off near Elwell Lodge in the Lakes Basin area of Plumas County Sunday afternoon to go hiking with her “small Chihuahua-type dog.”
When the boy did not return by 6 p.m., his mother alerted authorities that the deadline had passed, the sheriff's office said.
The sheriff's office said the boy was only prepared for a day hike and planned to be out for 15 to 45 minutes. He told KCRA TV. He added that temperatures in the area could dip into the 30s overnight.
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The boy was reported missing Sunday afternoon in the Lakes Basin area of Plumas County. (Plumas County Search and Rescue)
Search and rescue teams were dispatched to the area and a California Highway Patrol Northern Air Operations helicopter searched the area from the air using infrared technology, Plumas County Search and Rescue said. However, despite all search efforts, the boy could not be found.
Officials said the teenage hiker was found safe Monday afternoon after spending the night in the wilderness in subfreezing temperatures. (Plumas County Search and Rescue)
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Rescuers resumed their search Monday morning, enlisting the help of numerous counties, agencies, family and friends. Multiple helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft also joined the search.
The teenage girl was out on a day hike with her dog. (Plumas County Search and Rescue)
Rescue workers said the girl was found safely at around 4 p.m. and was reunited with her family in “good health.” Officials told KCRA that the dog was also found safe along with the boy.
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“Searchers, police and community volunteers looked on and celebrated.” [the teen] Plumas County Search and Rescue: “Hug her family. We are grateful for the mutual aid and community support, and for the privilege of helping bring a happy ending to a very difficult ordeal for all involved.'' I am grateful.”
