Full Notification

On Sunday at approximately 11:51 AM, the Montrose Search and Rescue Team was paged out to assist the LASD Parks Bureau and Glendale Police Department regarding a missing teenager. The initial call indicated the missing person was last seen heading into the wilderness at Crescenta Valley Park. The call also indicated the missing person was developmentally disabled. Members from our team, Altadena Mountain Rescue Team and Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team assisted with the search. We received air support from LAPD Headquarters LASD, Glendale PD, and Burbank Police Department.

Several hours into the search, a Montrose team member heard what sounded like the clinking of rocks together. Remembering that the missing person had an interest in playing with rocks, he investigated further. He also directed the Burbank PD airship to look down the canyon. Their efforts revealed the missing person was in the brush 400’ over the side of the fire road. Our team member went down the mountainside and made contact with the missing person. Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, he worked to build a rapport with the teenager. After gaining the trust of the missing person, he led him up the mountain to safety. Once at the top, he was treated by paramedics and released to his family.

Our Department was thrilled this incident had a happy ending. We respond to many reports where the missing person has a limited mental capacity. If you have a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, Autism, or other cognitive disorders, consider applying for Project Lifesaver. Project Lifesaver is a 501(C)(3) community based, public safety, non-profit organization that provides law enforcement, fire/rescue, and caregivers with a program and products designed to quickly locate individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to the life-threatening behavior of wandering.

The Project Lifesaver transmitter operates by producing an intermitted radio frequency (RF) signal, which is unheard by the wearer. Similar to LoJack® devices in stolen cars, the RF signal can penetrate through most walls, roofs, and building materials with a range of approximately one-half mile for ground units searching in suburban environments and even further in open areas where there are fewer obstructions. This device can help our Departmental members locate your loved one if they were to go missing.

For more information on the program, visit https://lafound.lacounty.gov/project-lifesaver/