Two Lost Hikers Rescued After Spending Night In San Jacinto Mountains
Two hikers from San Diego were safe on Monday morning after getting lost in the San Jacinto Mountains on Sunday.
Riverside County sheriff’s deputies responded to Black Mountain Trail and Highway 243 after the pair called them with their cell phone to report they were lost.
The Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit was mobilized to begin searching the area, but the strong winds and low-visibility prevented the county’s helicopters from taking part. Deputies said they had no other alternative than to tell the hikers to settle down for the night, and rescuers would continue their search in the morning.
On Monday at 8:20 a.m., rescue teams found the hikers about three-quarters of a mile north of the trailhead.
Lucia Terrasas, 27, and Justin Gerard, 36, both of San Diego, were escorted to the trailhead, and appeared to be in good spirits, according to sheriff’s deputies.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reminded hikers to carry proper equipment when they venture out. Proper preparedness includes a well thought-out travel plan shared with friends and family, as well familiarity with common hiking equipment, such as GPS, maps and compasses. You can find more suggestions at the county’s website.
