Humboldt County Hunter Missing in Mendocino County Suspected to Have Disappeared in the Swollen Waters of the Eel River

John Davis

John Davis

John Davis, the 48-year-old Humboldt County man who went missing nine days ago while camping and hunting in the area of Highway 162 and the 8-Mile Bridge, is thought to have possibly been swept away in the rising waters of the Eel River the morning he disappeared.

Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Captain Greg Van Patten told us Davis and his son were sleeping in a tent next to the Eel River on the night of Saturday, October 23, 2021.

The pair awoke to find the inside of their tent was “getting wet from the rising river,” Captain Van Patten explained. According to Van Patten, Davis’s son chose to go sleep in the car while Davis “indicated he was going to relocate the tent and sleep longer before hunting in the morning.”

The next morning, Davis did not return to the car and soon after Davis was reported missing to MCSO.

Based on these circumstances, Captain Van Patten said investigators now suspect “that the father went missing in the river either as a result of rising water or trying to cross the river to make it to the hunting location.”

Search for John Davis

Some of the search teams who looked for John Davis. [Photo from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Department]

The search for Davis has been extensive by both Search and Rescue agencies and civilian searchers. MCSO’s SAR team has dedicated at least four operational days to the search for Davis as described in posts on their Facebook page.

Search and Rescue personnel from Alameda County, Contra Costa County, Sonoma County, San Mateo County, Napa County, Placer County, Nevada County, Bay Area Mountain Rescue, Cal ESAR, and the California Air National Guard have assisted in the search.

Searchers who looked for John Davis. [Photo from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Department]

Helicopter looking for John Davis. [Photo from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Department]

Significant efforts have been made to search the banks of the Eel River and the California Air National Guard deployed a Sikorsky HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter to search the river from above.

At the same time, the family of Davis and sympathetic members of the public have organized searches and reportedly gained permission by nearby property owners to comb the areas Davis could be located. As of Monday evening, Davis has not been found.

Earlier:
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87 Comments
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Bozo
Guest
Bozo
2 years ago

With the release of details… now it makes sense.
RIP hunter.

Mega me
Guest
Mega me
2 years ago

Very sad.

$5000 a pound back in the day!
Guest
$5000 a pound back in the day!
2 years ago

Man…my apologies to the family. If they would’ve only released these details immediately it would have stopped all the wild speculation. Not sure why they let us go on and on with our theories and not just say what happened, but at this point it doesn’t matter. I will refrain from speculating on these tragedies in the future. Extremely sorry for your loss.

Miguel
Guest
Miguel
2 years ago

Smart.

Wounded Mantis
Guest
Wounded Mantis
2 years ago

Word..However I totally agree that the truth equals freedom as in with holding the truth leads too a bad hair day. I actually learned a lot about the operations of search and rescue throughout this publication, and hope people learn from it. Heart goes to the family of the missing, and still hope he is found safe and has one heck of a story too tell.

K11111
Guest
K11111
2 years ago

You weren’t involved in the search, all that info was given to the only people who NEEDED it. Just a reminder, you have absolutely no right or need to know unnecessary details about strangers for you entertainment. But that is wonderful that one less person thinks they should publicly speculate about strangers misfortune.

Armchair detective
Guest
Armchair detective
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

There’s no real benefit to keeping it secret. Remember the guy who got stuck in the snow by Mad River, and walked to Titlow hill over ten days? The first guy to run into him treated him like a homeless trespasser.
An interesting read is the Cold Vanish by John Billman. It’s nonfiction about difficult disapearences in the wild. The core of the book is about a son who goes missing, leaving his bike by the Sol Duc river. The river absorbed everybody’s suspicions, but he was found way….wait, read the book.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

Sometimes missing means murdered etc.
There may be several reasons for controlling details that wouldn’t benefit the investigation by being widespread knowledge in public.

Farce
Guest
Farce
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

Make that two less people. And it was never entertainment. Covelo has been having all kinds of tragedies lately. I’d hope none of us find it entertaining, more like concerning and worrisome. If you were in the search party- Thank You. Prayers for the hunter and his family

Jason
Guest
Jason
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

I think it would have helped. If not then why announce it now? Maybe your a search and rescue specialist and you can explain the actual reasoning to give no information. I think it would be educational to explain the actual reasoning to not release details. Since a lot of people do think that would help if trying to locate a missing person.

Last edited 2 years ago
Mergler
Guest
Mergler
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

I think release of this possible scenario could have allowed landowners and visitors anywhere down stream to keep their eye out while at the river.
I don’t understand the thinking withholding this POSSIBLE scenario, without thinking about it in a cynical way.
This missing guy is a true local in the sense that he survived all these dangers as a child growing up here, with no doubt countless close calls while surviving child/teen years- as most of us have. Sorta hard to believe….but it was night, and a once in 15-20 years Oct deluge where the initial downpours made a b line to the creeks before the ground softened.

Dillon Wright
Guest
Dillon Wright
2 years ago
Reply to  Mergler

I agree.

Guess
Guest
Guess
2 years ago
Reply to  Mergler

True I would have check the river by AP and IM more when I drove by it.

Lost Croat Outburst
Guest
Lost Croat Outburst
2 years ago
Reply to  Mergler

I am very sorry for this hunter and his family. Heavy rains in October are not that unusual. Weather reports and forecasts are available every minute with your hand-held device. I have made mistakes in the woods but lucked out. The only good that can come from this is a lesson for all of us. Smooth trails and a breeze in your face, compadre.

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

Anyone potentially interested in assisting in the search could have also been emitted from the basic facts surrounding the incident.

The information can only help, and it is the only possible way to prevent speculation, if that bothers you so much.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  lol

The other option is to refrain oneself.

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

That only affects your own behavior, not the very predictable behavior of many other people.

Also there is no good reason to refrain from reasonable speculation.

Tony
Guest
Tony
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

This is a news media outlet. With that said, condolences to the family.

Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
Guest
Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
2 years ago
Reply to  K11111

The family was asking for volunteer searchers! When volunteering a group or yourself want to know the situation that you are walking into! One does not want to get harmed or others get harmed because information is being WITHHELD.
When missing, anyone of us human beings tends to speculate enemies, serial killers, dope growers, bears, mountain lions, wild pigs, being followed, or type of terrain to prepare for. It is justifiable to ask before considering taking any of this on.
What time you meet, where to meet, is it private property if so are they willing to take chance of someone else getting hurt on their property and end up with a liability suit!
This BERATING BELITTLINTLING people that are speculating because no storyline is given, no information given, or making people feel helpless when they want to help is really UNCALLED for and started the first day.
If people want to think the boogie man lives there and got him whatever, it is NOT a negative comment it is one of not knowing! If you cannot handle the comments PERHAPS you should be out looking for him instead of slamming everyone! Try using some common sense and be practical with your time!
I heard about this on day one, first 24 hrs imperative!  I’ve got friends willing go out on horseback and I have neighbors that belong to kayak club. I had people willing, but could not get any information, and when anyone was to ask anything or make a comment it would come back with the oversensitivity of being negative.
Nope not sending folks into the unknown of dope growers, hailing bullets of hunters!!!
And you refer to this as entertainment???. At this point and time, we all know the conclusion will be, Just keep digging out those emotional blurbs

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

If volunteering for a search, MCSO/SARs will screen & inform the prospective volunteers as usual.
They don’t want to compound the problem(s) by bringing unprepared folks into the field.

The authorities usually have all the necessary info needed to gain access to SARs and/or citizens forming search parties.

They don’t generally pass on the details to loose unorganized groups because of the risks.
Usually search parties keep within visual contact and work patterns, sweeps, & nets.
More so when coordination w private property owners is required.

Losing a searcher is akin to a lifeguard dying while attempting to rescue a drowning swimmer who can’t be saved because of hazards or time constraint.

The comments section here is an inappropriate forum to gain access & proper data to become involved in a SARs action.

Last edited 2 years ago
Superiority Ego
Guest
Superiority Ego
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

In case you were not aware the family had a facebook page asking for volunteers in the search! That is volunteers citizens they were requesting to help from. Perhaps you should speak with the family about their search volunteer requests!
My point was unless you missed it was, to the family! I don’t want my folks getting harmed because of lack of information! Was it private property, were there growers in the area? Was this open hunting area where bullets could fly? The Terrain, fenced off, open land.
[edit]

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

Well, then I hope you contacted them on their chosen forum, FB.

Best to meet a family in crisis on their own terms.

It might also make sense that they likely don’t want an anonymous forum to become a central recruiting tool for an effort that is coordinated with private property owners and law enforcement.
And that people deeply involved likely don’t have time for all the griping and bs here as it’s far from productive or focused.

Last edited 2 years ago
SARS Ego deflation
Guest
SARS Ego deflation
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

If John had an injury such as fractured ankle, femur, lays there in shock, can’t help him self. The family is frantic because SARS/MCSO throws in the towel so quickly as they do every time one of scenarios comes along!! The family are asking for a volunteer searchers via the web!! Really who can blame them that is there loved one out there and you all are posting images on MCSO page of eating lunch together and thanking the sponsor. YOU GO OUT THERE TILL YOU FIND HIM!! You don’t sit on a keyboard taunting others or the family members na na I have privy info and your not allowed to search!!

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

You all?
So, if someone posts facts about how SARS functions, that’s “proof” they’re a part of SARS? Or that SARS has an outsized ego?

This is the exact kind of presumption that just doesn’t help anyone…And is straight up damaging, while it’s totally unsubstantiated.

Does everyone here realize that SARS is a fully volunteer staffed organization?
Yes, regular people with expertise and regular jobs.
Funded only by MCSO leftovers, grants, &/or donations.

If people want more specific details of the situation they should make contact with SARS directly OR with the family organized volunteer search effort on their chosen forum, facebook, not on the wide open web.

Or just stick to the comments here and keep complaining you weren’t included….otherwise known as making it about yourself.

If you want highly speculative presumption and unconfirmed flotsam and jetsom keep pounding away at the comment section here and complaining about how ALL the details aren’t shared with an anonymous forum and how there couldn’t possibly be a reason to restrict some of the info…that choice is made within the MCSO command structure not SARS.

And keep reading on about how people who have little to no context or training somehow know better how to find someone lost/missing and go about criticizing the SARs efforts.
Mostly the same folks who tell LEOs how to do their jobs but haven’t even a base concept of how the law functions or how to run such an effort.

Seems there may be some other egos run amok while not actually
helping.
Guessing the stones will keep flying tho…whether this tragic situation comes to a positive close
or not.

Sars Ego Deflation
Guest
Sars Ego Deflation
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

I am fully aware that SARS is a volunteer organization, I’ve watched you all paddle around in 2 ft puddles searching.

SARS and MCSO has failed John, failed this family and so many others like it.

While you rant, rave, shame. of your superior knowledge to everyone on this thread. I am noticing your doing the same on many other articles.

Between Mendocino and Humboldt highest capita in the USA for missing and murdered people.

This county needs many changes and improvements.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

You might call it a rant…but clearly straightforward, basic explanations sadly don’t suffice for the so called Ego Deflator unless your own leaps count.

The “you all” you claim to have observed didn’t include myself.
This presumptive leap is very much your own creation…now arrogant, as you’ve been corrected several times.
Simply put, is an Incontrovertible fact that your words and belief will not change, regardless of what you may manufacture from thin air.
Should be lesson to you rather than fuel argument.
False assumptions are false and fuel BS.

Hypothesis/Possible does not mean Theory/Probable. Probable does not mean Certain/Conclusive.
A long list of Hypotheses or Theories is not Conclusive however likely….is still Incomplete.
Logic is like math…they do not bend to Beliefs or Opinions. Though you have lots of them. Some flayed by points of fact.
Is very important to grasp the difference.

I, for one, am super stoked you aren’t the Commander of SARS.

One of the many ways a SARS Search can lead to a Rescue is by carefully Searching for ANY Evidence AND/OR Trace of the missing however small or inconclusive.

To your surprise, that may involve searching shallow 2′ pools.
An underwater boot print in the mud or other evidence May point out the condition of and/or in the direction of the missing.
Any & All leads May be Critical to a Search becoming a Rescue.

You may have seen with your eyes, but it sounds very likely, based in your false conclusions & vitriol, that you failed to grasp, from the outside, the myriad purposes of SARS actions.

Yet, it’s still not rocket surgery tho is a very real field of study in action.

A little humility can broaden the mind beyond the base limits of presumption and unfounded leaps.
Specifics of private land search efforts are rarely shared publicly.
Landowners usually want/need an official access point to ensure everyone involved are authorized and informed by a single path of info. Some level of control and recording progress/movement is needed.

If clear reproducible facts and/or Conclusive evidence, or the Lack therof, are intentionally ignored it’s very hard to grasp how you can actually help a real effort to find him without following those trained in organized protocols.

Big difference between your “claim” that I espouse superior knowledge VS some of my offerings that are real observable & reproducible facts….or that I toss people’s unfounded flights of fancy, leaps, false assumptions & conclusions, propaganda, hyper-politicized rhetoric, etc…
polished turds are still turds regardless of false valuation given unwittingly by many.

Yes SARS has not found him.
But you EXPLICILTY do NOT know/understand all the specific limits involved or WHY they haven’t shared all details publicly OR found him.

Acting otherwise is presumptuous and JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS without supporting evidence.
There may be disparate details that support your opinion but, thus far, is Anything but Conclusive.

Criticizing so harshly from an armchair, with conclusion that SARS is incompetent while not making real effort yourself is UNFOUNDED & straight Reeks of Hubris.
You Mischaracterize, intentionally or otherwise, my Intense Disgust for your, and other’s, many & continued Denigrations of people’s actual volunteer efforts and the general mob minded BS here, as playing Superior.
…another fundamentally flawed “conclusion” to which you leap.

Maybe you’re right…that SARS failed him through bungling…maybe not…you DON’T KNOW…we don’t know.
Is unlikely.
Is most likely that physics and lack of real data is the culprit as usual.

Noone in SARS went out there to play around.
SARS at least made a real, substantial, & measurable effort…
You?? Made a real and measurable effort to discredit SARS without an iota of substantiated data, and whine about the lack of publicized detail for a private land search that may have publicly unreported complications…without going to the chosen forum for access.

Fucking off in this forum hasn’t done an iota of good for John or Family.
It’s only pointed out a lack, on your and others part, of awareness & context, along with willfully reinforced blindspots, and an unwillingness to engage with the official family authorized effort.

Lots of things need to change in these counties.
It might help if all the black market money and unpermitted
property improvements went to increase prop values & support the tax base. There might
then be more resources available
for these very purposes.

Most importantly, our counties would benefit immeasurably from the collective mob removing their heads from their oft shown, many & great asses.
Then, maybe, real discussion and valuable action by the many may ensue in earnest with some consideration and base civility.

Until that miracle occurs, I will continue, without apology, to dissect the many ill conceived flights of fancy, opinions based on falsehoods, and unsupported leaps to faulty conclusions presented as substance, etc.

Snowflakery of any political
leaning is fair game.
Incivility may be prioritized.

With love

Last edited 2 years ago
Sars Ego Deflation
Guest
Sars Ego Deflation
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

You have proved my point, you have taken half the page saying nothing, feeling superior to others. Look at how many people you have slammed here!
MM 6.7 July 2019 victims vehicle abandoned, images from news reports showed SARS playing around in puddles! In Feb 2020 the victim was found straight across from the vehicle.
So yes I feel that SARS has failed John Davis as well! You all gave up search on him after 2 days, if he was laying out their injured, you all sealed his fate!
There were no watercraft taken out in the water to search! So you all…SARS and MCSO failed two victims now.
I have supported the family.
Anyone on here with any thoughts yours supersedes them all!

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

Basic information is valuable for those considering whether or not they would like to be involved in the search.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  lol

So engage the volunteer citizen effort.
It’s very simple…spend as much energy contacting them on FB rather than complaining here.

Jason
Guest
Jason
2 years ago

Very sad. He’s still not found. It’s ok to speculate that’s what a brain does it thinks about possibilities to help solve a problem that is being broadcasted on a news site. No one should feel bad for thinking and trying to help. News is filled with people’s personal information. Prayers to the family.

Captain 'MuricaD
Member
Captain 'Murica
2 years ago

I’ve been making a personal effort not to speculate on things like this. I just don’t think it does anyone any good.

Guest
Guest
Guest
2 years ago

People did not have to make nasty comments on earlier reports, they chose to do it. Now own it.

I hope this man is found. The whole thing is just horrible.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  Guest

Amen

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Guest

Well in their opinion people shouldn’t have been asking for any potentially helpful background information. It’s not a position that I sympathize with but I guess it’s emotionally based and now you can understand that. You’re right though they shouldn’t have been making nasty comments.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago

Controlling thyself is always a better bet than expecting others to do it

Yeah,sure
Guest
Yeah,sure
2 years ago

Armchair Sherlocks stumbled over themselves yet again. Arguing with family members and searchers as if this tragedy was all about them and not the missing person. Demanding details and answers like they were paid detectives. This won’t be the last article they crash around in I’m sure…

Jim Thompson
Guest
Jim Thompson
2 years ago
Reply to  Yeah,sure

I think with comments like that people will be less inclined to help in the future. Asking questions would be human nature if someone is lost

Yeah,sure
Guest
Yeah,sure
2 years ago
Reply to  Jim Thompson

Show up at the Search and get briefed if you really want to Help. Otherwise, speculating, guessing, arguing, grilling , demanding and getting testy with family members and searchers in the thread shows an actual lack of real concern.

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Yeah,sure

Many people are going to want some very basic information before they can evaluate whether or not they can be helpful in assisting. Grilling and demanding are certainly out of line.

Wounded Mantis
Guest
Wounded Mantis
2 years ago
Reply to  Yeah,sure

Yeah, sure…Seems like legit concerns. Missing 411 by David P always states when people go missing there are numerous facts in common with his 1500 cases world wide.

1. Point of separation
2. Extreme weather event.
3. Close to water.
4. Few more, research his work.

Any way people are often found outside of search zone, and in places already searched numerous times.

SARs need to and all should watch Missing411 The hunted…This case might fit the profile.

Yeah,sure
Guest
Yeah,sure
2 years ago
Reply to  Wounded Mantis

I’m well aware of his work. Even if this case could possibly fit his criteria, it’s not going to be solved by badgering family members and searchers in these threads…

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Yeah,sure

Damn I need to go back and read the comments on the original article. I completely missed people arguing with family members or any “demand” for details or answers.

Dillon Wright
Guest
Dillon Wright
2 years ago

It’s not an overnight camping area and also not a public hunting area. The POSSIBLE story still lacks details that could still help. Strange. Now that the search is called off can they release more info so people can look on there own because it may still help. But at this point it’s up to his family to do what they feel is right. He could still be possibly alive and still has not been found. Prayers to him and his family and for him to be found.

Last edited 2 years ago
Mr. Bear
Guest
Mr. Bear
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

Do you know if he have permission to hunt there?

Last edited 2 years ago
Mr. BearD
Member
Mr. Bear
2 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Bear

“had”

Annon
Guest
Annon
2 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Bear

He did.

Mr. Bear
Guest
Mr. Bear
2 years ago
Reply to  Annon

Well then. Dillon should zip it

Dillon Wright
Guest
Dillon Wright
2 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Bear

Annon is not being truthful. And I’m not saying he didn’t have permission. Keep your negativity to yourself it’s not needed. You should zip it. Rudeness doesn’t help anybody.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

1st, Do you know the property owner?
As in, do you have clear incontrovertible data/evidence that the hunting group was trespassing?

2nd, when someone claims offense at “perceived” rudeness, says “to keep it to oneself” & “it doesn’t help”, and then proceeds to reflect that same “rudeness” in
return, it should beg questioning, what’s the fkn point?
And who’s riding the high horse now?

Jim Dogger
Guest
Jim Dogger
2 years ago

Was his tent gone in the morning, or just him?

Dillon Wright
Guest
Dillon Wright
2 years ago
Reply to  Jim Dogger

Exactly what I was wondering. But there’s a reason people aren’t sharing details I assume be careful asking questions on here to help or even if your just wondering people will attack you on here and make it seem like your not a good person. I wouldn’t even try anymore. Just pray. If I was missing I would want every detail shared to every person interested and thank you to the people that are trying to help In any way they can. When something happens sometimes people try and redirect there anger to the people that are trying to help the most. Very sad situation.

guest
Guest
guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

thats probably because he was camping in and hunting in an area that he wasnt supposed to and didnt have permission from the property he was hunting on, and instead of just recognizing that it was wrong to do that, and then going forward to a solution that is finding him. just say it was a mistake to do that, give the important information that could very likely find him, and move on to search areas that he might be. ive spent years and years in that very area and know it well, and asked the family member if he had permission to be there and they never answered. because knowing that kind of stuff can clue us in on where to look and what to look for. i was even kind with my remarks about making mistakes and doing stupid stuff but that he is loved and believe it or not almost all of us want him found alive and well. i hope hes stuck on the other side of the river and making his way up or down the tracks to help. got to go to dos rios or up to 101 basically before you get to a rd, but there are many homes in the direct vicinity of the area if you know where to look. hope the story turns out well

Jim Dogger
Guest
Jim Dogger
2 years ago
Reply to  guest

If he was within the mean high water mark of the Eel, he was on a public right-of-way. Sounds like that may have been a bad place to be at that time.

Trespass is not a big deal, legally speaking, anyway. I’d be much more worried about the obvious threat of large amounts of flowering cannabis being guarded by armed criminals in that neck of the woods at this time of year.

But yeah, I don’t care if people talk shit on this comment thread, just wondering if the tent was still there in the morning or not. I’d kinda have to assume not for the swept away story to fit.

Last edited 2 years ago
guest
Guest
guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Jim Dogger

since its no big deal to poach and trespass on private property- legally speaking of course, then of course you dont have a problem with people doing that on your land, get a grip man, ive had people poaching on my land for years its a big deal and super wrong, it think its called stealing???

Guest
Guest
Guest
2 years ago
Reply to  guest

It’s not stealing. The game animals do not belong to the land owner.

Gabe smith
Guest
Gabe smith
2 years ago
Reply to  Guest

Actually they don’t belong to the trespasser/ poacher, I can say that is true statement. They do actually belong to the land owner for its there’s to shoot with license and tag or to choose to protect making it the landowners animal. And landowner has the right to allow hunters with permission by the property owner to hunt there also . So pretty much is owned not like a car but is owned by mans owner.

Guest
Guest
Guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Gabe smith

They belong to the State of California.

End of story.

Lost Croat Outburst
Guest
Lost Croat Outburst
2 years ago
Reply to  Jim Dogger

Trespass IS a big deal whether you or the law thinks so or not. You do not have to be a grower to NOT want casual trespass and especially hunting on your property, which you apparently do not have so no big deal to YOU. See how that works? If you cross private land to access the public beach, without permission, you’re trespassing. Oh, you won’t shoot a deer ‘til you get to the river. Right. What if it’s a nice buck the landowner wants? Too bad.
Several writers claim that the missing hunter did have permission which would end that issue. Yes, one would assume that the tent would also be missing if high water took him.
Never camp on a river bar during a heavy rain.
Very sad situation. Condolences to all.

Jim Dogger
Guest
Jim Dogger
2 years ago

I disagree. It’s not a big deal, in my mind, to use land I don’t own to travel or enjoy the scenery. It’s also generally an infraction in the eyes of the law. I don’t hunt, so, the idea of a deer belonging to someone is laughable. What I do take is photographs and litter and what I leave is only the occasional footprint (and a roach about every 3 or 4 miles of trail)…

This land is your land,
This land is my land
This land was made for you and me

Last edited 2 years ago
Farce
Guest
Farce
2 years ago
Reply to  Jim Dogger

You’re probably a decent person and no problem. But I am protective of my privacy and “my” land (yes, “ownership” is still weird to me, maybe “guardianship” is a better descriptor). And many if not most people are very dangerous, stupid, ignorant or destructive. I won’t tolerate trespassers. Just by virtue of them being disrespectable enough to not bother reading maps or care who they might be disrespecting I have to assume they are trouble…and even carelessly smoking a joint during fire season can be big trouble. You see- I don’t trust people to do the smart or honorable thing and that is precisely why I’m out there where they are not!

Jim Dogger
Guest
Jim Dogger
2 years ago
Reply to  Farce

Appreciate the respectful comment. Yes, I sadly am among the minority who believe that littering and general desecration of nature is an unforgivable offense. I will always leave immediately when asked, if I am in violation of trespass laws. Agree that a burning joint can definitely start a fire… Too bad membership in Boy Scouts has had a steady decline over the last few decades, it’s where I learned to be a steward to the land, be hyper-vigilant with fire, and always treat a gun as if it’s loaded!

Annon
Guest
Annon
2 years ago
Reply to  guest

He actually did indeed have permission from the property owner. not just a random “hey let’s go here” type thing. He’s not an idiot.

Last edited 2 years ago
Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
Guest
Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
2 years ago
Reply to  guest

yup agree!

Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
Guest
Whats Entertainment Have to do With it?
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

You are spot on! I tried to help but needed information and kept getting attacked verbally. So I and resources of others speculate it is not safe to help with this situation! There is something underlying here that I am not interested in knowing!! I tried to help day one, but like you said people deflect their anger when hurting and go into an attack mode.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

Asking questions is far different than broadly speculative nastiness VS demanding info (and denigrating 1st responders for not sharing) VS speaking as if one knows.

Some people clamp onto events like these with the fervor of addiction because they get some kinda high from inflaming people and conflating details or guessing like a gambler on the small chance they’re correct they will get a jolt and feel important….trolling hard.

Dillon Wright
Guest
Dillon Wright
2 years ago
Reply to  Non-fiction

I didn’t really pick up on the nastiness I picked up on people trying to figure out what happened and to help. There’s some people with no bedside manner sort of speak. I saw a lot of over sensitivity from some. The word troll has been used extremely loosely lately. And I didn’t pick up trolling either. Just people giving there personal opinions and comments in a comment section. Over sensitivity is a common problem in many ways these days in time in every aspect of life. I saw much more nastiness from the other side. And I do think much more information should have been passed but I can tell there is a reason. If I was a family member of a missing person I would give every single detail possible and id be communicating with people that want to help in every way possible. Including clarifying people’s misconceptions and misunderstood ideas . Communication is key. I figure more of his friends and family would be communicating on here.

Last edited 2 years ago
lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

Baaed on the comments posted here, I’m assuming that there must have been some sort of very negative speculation and “demanding answers” on the original story. I didn’t see that either, so those comments must have been made later.

Either that or we have some very belligerent morons posting, who for some reason are opposed to both asking questions and speculation.

Insane Dialogue
Guest
Insane Dialogue
2 years ago
Reply to  Dillon Wright

Wow you are correct you can’t ask a question here to try to get perspective of how one could help. There appears to be family member responding with all kinds of inflammatory responses as if they were being attacked.
Then there is another individual on here that is claiming to be part of professional Search team involved stating their privileged of knowing the facts, how she knows it all, labeling others stupid, throwing insults, pimping ego instead of remaining professional, not responding.
Minimally the SARS Team, MCSO should have put a boat in the water and anchored it, but they don’t bother.

Victor
Guest
Victor
2 years ago

He’s dead unfortunately. It’s a body recovery now not a search and rescue

Jennifer Crook
Guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Victor

You don’t know that! What a horrible person you are.

Non-fiction
Guest
Non-fiction
2 years ago
Reply to  Victor

Are you privy to info not in the public record?
Or that should’ve already been reported to MCSO/SARs?

Or speaking from presumptuos speculation?

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Victor

God damn man. That’s a horrible comment to make. I’m not laughing at that.

Maureen
Guest
Maureen
2 years ago

Not an outcome that is desired. Condolences to his friends and family.😢🙏

Bigfoot
Guest
Bigfoot
2 years ago

Lets not rule out homicide in this case. There were guns at the scene, and its hard to belive a man floated down river in a tent and cannot be found

Willow Creeker
Guest
Willow Creeker
2 years ago
Reply to  Bigfoot

I would hate to live on the eel and have the thought that a poor guy might be snagged on the branches if I walked down for an evening stroll. RIP I hope it was an accident

Lost Croat Outburst
Guest
Lost Croat Outburst
2 years ago
Reply to  Bigfoot

In a high water situation, a victim could make it all the way to the sea. Or not. I think research will show that it has happened. The water just has to be very high for a few hours. The Eel drains several thousand square miles of mountainous terrain that snags a lot of water from big storms. Rapid flooding is no surprise.

lol
Guest
lol
2 years ago
Reply to  Bigfoot

Geez! Okay now I’m starting to understand what people were talking about when they were referring to nasty speculation.

That’s not potentially helpful in any way.

Jennifer Scott
Guest
Jennifer Scott
2 years ago

He would not of camped right next to the river especially in the rain. Friends and family are still searching and asking for help searching. They think he is lost or hurt in the mountains and can’t get out on his own. So if anyone is available to help them search then please do go down to Highway 162 mile marker 8 and talk to his family and friends they can give all the info needed and tell you which property owners have given permission to search.

Guest
Guest
Guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer Scott

I am hoping and praying that this man ,somehow, miraculously, is found alive, and is reunited with his family.

Jennifer Scott
Guest
Jennifer Scott
2 years ago
Reply to  Guest

Thank you.

Guest
Guest
Guest
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer Scott

You’re welcome.

sparky
Guest
sparky
2 years ago

We need an ELECTED SHERIFF not an appointed one who is failing miserably on a daily basis!!
Was there the night before the disappearance and heard them calling to me.. Told the deputy everything i heard the night before. He was never anywhere but down by the river. Total sh*tshow and waste of everyones time and energy. Prayers to the family.

rachel mayo
Guest
rachel mayo
2 years ago
Reply to  sparky

Hi sparky. I’m the missing man’s girlfriend. Is there anyway I can get in touch with you?

F. Hue
Guest
F. Hue
2 years ago

In the original article it stated he was wearing NEON GREEN pants with a reflective stripe which seems it would make him easy to spot were he in the river or along its bank. Dead or alive I hope they find him for his family’s sake.

JB Saints
Member
JB Saints
2 years ago

I’m not speculating here..I’m just stating my opinion on what I’ve read, witch is several different article..I my self am a accomplished hunter hiker born in raised 10 miles from the nearest to town just north of the geysers 40 years experience in the wild…so one thing I can say is a man of his status would have most definitely watched the weather forecast closely and certainly would have not chosen to post camp so close to the river ,secondly never have I herd of two hunters father and son or not ever I mean ever..separating from each other during that type of emergency or let me rephrase that, NEVER do they split up like that especially father and son, third green neon rain pants yet so hard to find him? My guess he’s on land, dog found by its self, most cases dog would have still bin franticly looking for him not near the disappeace site unless he still some wear near the site but not a fact, why would he try crossing the river making such a dangerous discussion when they could have just went back over the bridge near by and safely crossed the bridge…so no matter what details there are something is decently not adding up? No offence but I feel there is a much bigger pitcher needing looked at such as his back round…just saying

JB Saints
Member
JB Saints
2 years ago

My condolences to the family…so sorry😢

Last edited 2 years ago
Something ain’t right
Guest
Something ain’t right
2 years ago

If he had gotten swept up in the river why hasn’t he been found downstream yet? Was the tent and the other belongings found at the campsite? Something doesn’t sound right with this story. Knowing the area they were in I could bet my eye teeth something nefarious has happened. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. I hope he is found and you get some answers sooner rather than later.