Yosemite National Park announced Thursday it has scaled down the search for missing hiker George Penca.
After nearly one week of extensive searching, Park Rangers have not found any clues as to Penca’s whereabouts. Penca, from Hawthorne, California, has been missing in the area of Upper Yosemite Fall since June 17.
Initial search efforts began on June 17, after Penca was reported missing when he failed to return from a day hike he was on with members from his church. A full-scale operation was initiated on June 18, including approximately 105 Search and Rescue personnel from around the state.
Search efforts will now transition to a limited continuous search in the area Penca was last seen. The change in search strategy was implemented after review of the continued risk of exposure for Search and Rescue personnel, as well as the lack of clues as to Penca’s whereabouts.
Yosemite National Park is asking anyone who has been in the area of the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail who may have information on George Penca to please call the Yosemite Emergency Communication Center at 209-379-1992.
Penca is described as 5’ 10” tall, weighing 240 pounds, with dark brown hair, blue eyes, and a stocky build. He was last seen wearing gray sweatpants with white stripes, a black t-shirt that says “D&B” across the chest, or a black tank top, and gray/blue running shoes.
TXT 24
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