Arnold, CA — Today marks the fourth day of a multi-agency search for missing hunter Devin Smith.
The 37 year old Douglas Flat resident departed Monday by himself for a one day deer hunt northeast of Arnold. He’s been missing ever since. Smith was scheduled to return home that evening by seven o’clock.
Search and rescue teams and volunteers from Calaveras, Amador, Alpine, El Dorado, Tuolumne, Merced and Mariposa counties officially started their search Tuesday noon. Tracking dogs are also being used in the search effort.
Given that Smith was only planning a one day hunt one could assume that he did not pack any overnight gear. Sgt. Dave Seawell of the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Department commented Thursday evening, “Exposure definitely becomes an issue but we’re hoping that with his military and hunting experience that he will find ways to avoid hypothermia.”
Approximately 50 volunteers spent Thursday in the extremely rugged terrain. The same number is expected today. Volunteer numbers are expected to greatly increase over the weekend. Sunday evening officials will evaluate the search effort. As Seawell commented, “We never want to give up when we’re searching for a missing person.”
While many private citizens have offered to help in the search, only search and rescue personnel certified by the state Office of Emergency Services will be approved.
Smith lost his wife to an automobile accident several years ago. He is the father of two girls, one of which celebrated a birthday Tuesday. Smith is scheduled to be married Saturday, October 17.
Written by bill.johnson@mlode.com
This post was last modified on 10/02/2009 6:20 am