For your information - Monterey County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue members, as well as members from Marin County, Contra Costa County, San Luis Obispo County, and Bay Area Mountain Rescue teams, are involved in the ground operations. Aircraft flying over Carmel Valley (including US Coast Guard, National Guard, Cal FIRE and CHP helicopters, along with a Monterey County Sheriff's Office plane) are also assisting in the search.
via Monterey County Weekly, written by Mark Anderson)
The flier tells the story.
And it's not the most comforting.
"Missing hiker, last seen China Camp on 8/6/14."
Arvin "Chief" Nelson, a longtime server at Big Sur River Inn, has gone missing in the Los Padres wilderness, presumably while on an extended trek.
Today marks the 12th day since he's been seen.
Coworkers describe Nelson as is in his early to mid 50s, 6-foot-3, black and around 200-215 pounds.
Citizen newsblogger Big Sur Kate has this report:
"Those of you who know this sweet man…he may need your good intentions for his safe return.
"He went on a backpacking trip alone, MAYBE to China Camp, Pine Ridge, to Sykes and was due back Thursday or Friday, but has not been seen, yet."
She adds search-and-rescue teams are into day two of trying to locate him. Helicopters have been deployed, search dogs will likely join the effort soon if they haven't already.
China Camp hides high and deep in Los Padres National Forest, accessible by Pine Ridge Trail from the Big Sur side and Tassajara Road from the Carmel Valley side.
Nelson drives a light yellow Wesphalia-style VW bus.
Any updates should be directed to the 667-2423 at the State Parks Office.
