Extensive Search Underway For Missing Senior In Portola Valley Preserve

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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The missing senior is identified as 78-year-old Eleanor Vance. Ms. Vance is described as 5'4" with shoulder-length gray hair and was last seen wearing a blue fleece jacket, khaki pants, and hiking boots. She suffers from early-stage dementia and requires regular medication.

The Portola Valley Preserve, known for its expansive trails and rugged landscape, presents significant challenges for search and rescue operations. Its size and varied terrain make the search particularly complex.

The Missing Senior: Details and Last Known Whereabouts

Eleanor Vance was last seen around 2:00 PM on Tuesday, October 24th, 2023, near the intersection of the Ridge Trail and the Redwood Creek Trail within the Portola Valley Preserve. She was embarking on a solo hike, a routine she often enjoyed.

• Last Seen Location: Intersection of Ridge Trail and Redwood Creek Trail, Portola Valley Preserve.
• Clothing: Blue fleece jacket, khaki pants, hiking boots.
• Medical Condition: Early-stage dementia. Requires medication.
• Belongings Left Behind: Her walking stick was found near the last known location. Her purse and phone were not located.

This information is crucial in narrowing down the search area within the extensive Portola Valley Preserve trail system. Any details, no matter how insignificant they may seem, could prove vital.

Search and Rescue Efforts: A Multi-Agency Response

The search for Eleanor Vance involves a coordinated effort from multiple agencies committed to finding her safely.

• Agencies Involved: San Mateo County Sheriff's Department, Portola Valley Police Department, Cal Fire, and several volunteer search and rescue teams.
• Search Methods: Ground searches are being conducted by teams of trained personnel covering the extensive network of Portola Valley Preserve trails. Aerial searches using drones and helicopters are also underway to cover a wider area. Canine units specializing in tracking missing persons are assisting with ground searches.
• Challenges: The steep hills, dense vegetation, and potentially changing weather conditions within the preserve are presenting significant challenges to the search efforts. The size of the search area, encompassing many miles of trails, adds to the complexity.
• Personnel: Over 50 personnel are currently involved in the active search.

Community Involvement and Public Appeal

The community is rallying to support the search for Eleanor Vance. Local residents are organizing volunteer search parties, while others are contributing to fundraising efforts to support the extensive search and rescue operation.

• Public Appeal: The authorities are urging anyone with information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department immediately. A dedicated tip hotline has been established.
• Reward: A reward is being offered for information leading to Eleanor's safe return.
• How to Help: Contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department at 650-363-4911.

The community's involvement is invaluable. Even a small piece of information can make a significant difference.

Safety Precautions in the Portola Valley Preserve

This incident highlights the importance of safety precautions when hiking in areas like the Portola Valley Preserve.

• Stay on Marked Trails: Always stick to designated trails to avoid getting lost in the wilderness.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your hiking route, estimated time of return, and contact details.
• Carry Essentials: Carry a map, compass or GPS device, plenty of water, and a fully charged mobile phone.
• Appropriate Attire and Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions.

Ongoing Search for Missing Senior in Portola Valley Preserve – Your Help Is Needed

The search for Eleanor Vance, the missing senior in Portola Valley Preserve, remains ongoing. Time is critical, and the continued cooperation of the community is vital. We urge anyone who may have seen Ms. Vance or has any information regarding her whereabouts to contact the authorities immediately. Even the smallest detail could lead to her safe return.

Please contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department at 650-363-4911 with any information. Let's bring Eleanor home safely. Your help is needed in this urgent search for a missing senior in Portola Valley Preserve. Any information, no matter how small, could be the key to finding her. Let's work together to bring Eleanor Vance back to her family.