Full Notification

DATE/TIME: June 20, 2015, at approximately 6:45 p.m.

INCIDENT: Search & Rescue

LOCATION: Stoddard Valley OHV area, near Black Angel mine, Barstow.

SUSPECT(S):

VICTIM(S): Edgar Ortiz, age 25, a resident of Boise, Idaho.


SUMMARY: On June 20th, 2015, at approximately 6:45 p.m., deputies from the Barstow Sheriff’s Station were called to help locate a lost subject in the Stoddard Valley OHV area, just south of Barstow. The subject, later identified as Edgar Ortiz, was riding with his brother, Javier, on a Honda quad when it broke down somewhere east of the family campsite. Javier left to get help, but when he returned, Edgar was nowhere to be found. Family searched for several more hours, but as the sun set, and with the heat of the day, they became concerned and called for help.

Family told Sheriff’s Dispatchers that Edgar did not bring water or food with him and had been out during the hottest part of the day. Temperatures had reached 105 degrees in that area. Edgar also did not have a cell phone with him. Deputy Michael Rodriguez and Sergeant Matthew Griffith from the Barstow Sheriff’s Station responded to the area. Due to the expansive OHV area of Stoddard Valley, the extreme heat and length of time Edgar had been gone, Sergeant Griffith requested Sheriff’s Aviation.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s helicopter 40-King-4, piloted by Deputies Paul Kowalski and James Landry immediately responded and arrived before patrol deputies. Deputies Kowalski and Landry landed the helicopter near the reporting party and obtained crucial information regarding Edgar. They re-launched and began an air search based on the last known direction of Edgar. Once airborne, Deputies Kowalski and Landry directed Sergeant Griffith in his 4x4 Tahoe patrol car into the OHV area and coordinated search efforts with Deputy Rodriguez who was with Edgar’s family.

During the search, Sergeant Griffith came upon another OHV enthusiast who stated Edgar was stuck due east of the campsite. The concerned citizen gave directions to Sergeant Griffith, who then relayed the information to 40-King-4. Both helicopter and Sergeant Griffith immediately responded in that direction and they came upon Edgar approximately 3 miles east of the campsite. Edgar had been found by another family member and they were towing Edgar back. Edgar did not need medical attention and appeared unharmed, he was safely returned to his family.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind citizens to be prepared during the extreme heat this area is currently experiencing and as we venture into the summer season. When camping or enjoying OHV activities, please remember to drink plenty of water, have additional water on hand and protect yourself from the adverse effects of the sun. When leaving the camping area, travel in groups, tell others where you are going, when you are expected back and have them take note of your clothing. By following these simple suggestions you and your group can continue to enjoy recreational activities in the San Bernardino County area.

Refer: Deputy Michael Rodriguez

Station: Barstow Station

Phone No. (760) 256 - 4838

Case No. 081500897

JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department