Sketch of shooting suspect released in N. California hiker’s death

Authorities have released a sketch of a gunman who they say robbed and shot two hikers on a trail, killing one of them, a 69-year-old, in Northern California.

Detectives are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect in the shooting death of Francis Patrick Gregory.

Gregory, who lived in Massachusetts, and a 76-year-old friend from Manton, Calif., were walking on the Iron Canyon Trail five miles north of California 36-E in Red Bluff between 11:30 a.m. and noon Friday, when an armed man reportedly confronted them, authorities said.

The gunman allegedly robbed Gregory and his friend of money and personal belongings and then shot them, leaving them in a remote area 100 yards from the trail head.

Three hours later, another hiker found the pair and notified authorities.

Tehama County sheriff’s deputies found Gregory dead at the scene. His friend, whose identity has not been released, was taken to a hospital.

The Tehama County Secret Witness program, a nonprofit group, has offered a $1,500 reward for the assailant’s arrest and conviction.

Detectives have asked people who were hiking in or near the area between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday, or who recognize the gunman, to immediately notify authorities.

The suspect was described as white, 35 to 40 years old, about 6 feet tall with a thin build, short black hair and a black mustache and beard. He wore dark denim pants and a dark printed T-shirt.

Anyone with details about the gunman is asked to call sheriff’s Det. Jeff Garrett at (530) 529-7920, Ext. 3032, or dispatch at (530) 529-7900. Callers can remain anonymous by calling a private witness hot line at (530) 529-1268.