Four missing hikers found safe in Palm Springs

Four hikers were reported missing in the TamarackValley area but were found safe and unharmed, a sheriff’s official said.

Sheriff’s deputies received a call at 7:40 p.m. Saturday and went to Tamarack Valley area near the Palm Springs Tram about a text message a hiker sent about being lost, Riverside County sheriff’s Sgt. John Shulda said.

The hiker, identified as Barry Cross, of Bothell, Wash., was with three other hiking companions who were reported missing when Cross’ cellular phone died, Shulda said.

Cross’ hiking partners were Yan Chen and Jing Li, both of Loma Linda, and Chalermpon Lertaskdadet, of Redlands, Shulda said.

State Park Rangers found all four hikers and took them to the ranger station. where they stayed overnight. A helicopter was not available to help in the search, Shulda said.

Sheriff’s deputies met with the missing hikers who were not hurt, Shulda said.