DATE/TIME: March 21, 2019 / 4:06 p.m.
INCIDENT: Search and Rescue
LOCATION: Snow Valley Ski Resort
VICTIM:Dustin Wagenbach, 50 years old, resident of Simi Valley
VIDEO: https://www.facebook.com/1529359010621246/posts/2232464333644040?sfns=mo
SUMMARY:
On March 21, 2019, at approximately 4:38 p.m. deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff's Station responded to Snow Valley Ski Resort for a lost skier.
At approximately 4:41 p.m. Sheriff's Dispatch received a 911 call from Dustin Wagenbach stating he was lost and his feet were wet. Sheriff's dispatch was able to get the GPS coordinates from Dustin's 911 call and determined his location was in the area of Bear Canyon, east of the Snow Valley Ski Resort.
Due to poor weather conditions, the Sheriff's Aviation Unit was unable to respond to the scene and assist with the search. The San Bernardino County Search and Rescue Team was deployed to assist in the search. Later Thursday night, rescuers located Dustin and escorted him through multiple canyons and cliffs to safety.
Dustin was seen by fire personnel at Snow Valley Ski Resort and was found to be in good health.
During this incident, Dustin had a charged cell phone and was able to communicate with dispatchers and deputies. He was dressed for the cold weather and was told to stay where he was, and he did. These examples are critical to a successful rescue. Given the snow, fog, cold temperatures and terrain, it would have been life threatening to someone who was not prepared.
Refer:Sergeant J. Wilson
Station:Twin Peaks
Phone No.(909) 336-0600
Case No.051900395
JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
