In a tragic turn of events, the search for a missing hiker in California resulted in the discovery of three bodies, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a report on the matter, a call was received at about 11:30 a.m. on December 29 regarding a missing 19-year-old male hiker who had fallen approximately 500 feet near the notoriously exposed Devil’s Backbone trail on 10,064-foot Mount Baldy. The call for help came from the fallen hiker’s friend and hiking companion, who hiked to an area with cellular service after the fall and was able to provide GPS coordinates that assisted in the rescue effort.

During an aerial search, the fallen hiker was located and determined to be injured, with two other individuals spotted, as well.

Severe winds prevented the helicopter from landing at that time, thus no rescue could be attempted. Later in the day, at about 7:30 p.m., a hoist operation was still impossible due to winds. During that time, however, it was possible to lower an air medic down into the area, with the air medic confirming that all three individuals who had been spotted were deceased.

The two deceased individuals who were not related to the initial search effort remain unidentified at last report. A report that was released on the morning of December 30 indicates that recovery operations for all three bodies are still underway.

Meanwhile, another rescue that took place on Mount Baldy on December 29 allowed for a successful hoist operation. Two hikers became stranded near Ontario Peak Trail – an 18-year-old male and a 31-year-old male – after one of them fell approximately 100 feet, sustaining injuries. This pair was able to call 911 around 1:44 p.m. for help and a successful rescue effort ensured.

A temporary closure order has been placed on Mount Baldy following the tragic loss of life and the dangerous conditions that are present in the area. Additionally, the closure is meant to prevent additional emergencies at this time. Anyone caught violating the closure order is subject to a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. The closure order is currently in place through 11:59 p.m. on December 31.

Condolences go out to those impacted by the deaths covered in this article.

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