The deputy then made contact with the registered owner’s husband at the couple’s home. The husband indicated he did not know where his wife was, nor did he know the location of his wife’s 9‐year‐old daughter, 13‐year‐old son, or her 73‐year‐old mother who live at the home together; he stated the family dog was also missing.
The man indicated the last time he saw any members of his family was at 10:00 a.m. He told the deputy he tried to call his wife, but was unable to reach her. There was no indication from the husband that his wife was upset, or there were any problems between the couple.
The deputy instructed the husband to continue to keep trying to contact his wife, including family members who may know where she could be.
Three hours later, the husband called the deputy and said he was able to reach his wife’s brother who had not heard from his sister. The deputy contacted the brother who provided information that his sister was having psychological problems and he was worried.
Vehicle pictured as it was discovered by a PCSO deputy.
Based on the information, all the missing family members were entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database as missing or endangered and the deputy returned to the scene of where the vehicle was left. At daylight, a search of the area was conducted with other patrol units. At 11:07 a.m. deputies utilizing tracking techniques located the missing family in a canyon approximately 1.5 miles from where the vehicle was left.
Aside from being hungry and tired, all family members were in stable condition and were able to be walked out for medical evaluation. The elderly woman showed early signs of dehydration.
Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, “I would like to commend my patrol deputies who worked this case. Responding deputies asked the right questions and followed their instincts which led them to the missing family. While the appropriate follow‐up investigation begins, the men and women who worked this case can take direct credit for saving this family’s life.”
