The search for a missing hiker in Joshua Tree National Park will be reduced, a park ranger confirmed Wednesday.
Trammel Evans, 25, was dropped off at Black Rock Campground on Sunday, April 30. He was supposed to be picked up on May 5th, however he did not show up. He was reported missing shortly after.
Evans describes himself as an athletic and experienced long-distance hiker familiar with Joshua Tree National Park.
On Monday, the National Park Service confirmed that JOSAR equipment was deployed, along with police helicopters and Marine Corps drones.
Ranger Hannah Schwalbe told News Channel 3 on Wednesday that the search is moving into a “limited and continuing phase.” This does not mean that the search and rescue operation is over. Schwalbe said she allows teams to rest and focus on priority areas.
He added that this seems like a reduction in continuity and number of hours.
Schwalbe said the entire area surrounding the hiker’s planned route has been “extensively” searched. The search area was from Black Rock to Geology Tour Road, then back to Black Rock via the California Riding and Hiking Trail.
Park rangers are asking anyone who has seen or talked to Trammell Evans to submit a tip. Call or text the NPS-wide info line 888-653-0009 or call 909-383-5652. You can also submit a tip online at go.nps.gov/SubmitATip Or email nps_isb@nps.gov
Officials are asking residents not to self-dispatch to search for Trammell Evans on their own and not to send a drone to assist in search efforts.
Stick with News Channel 3 for any updates.
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