Rescuer who fell during search in serious condition

With the two Costa Mesa teens found, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will concentrate on a rescuer who fell about 60 feet and hit his head.

“Now our focus is on the reserve deputy,” said Lt. Jason Park.

He added that the reserve deputy was in serious condition and in intensive care, but his injuries are not expected to be life threatening.

Among the agencies who searched for Kyndall Jack, 18, and Nicolas Cendoya, 19, were California Emergency Management Agency, Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, Civil Air Patrol, Costa Mesa Police Department, O.C. Parks and Rangers, San Bernardino County Assn. of Rescue Dogs, Ventura County San Diego, and Victor Valley Search and Rescue.

“This past five days has been the result of a bunch of guys coming together to get the job done,” Park said. “The message we want to send is if you’re going to go hiking we want you to be safe.”

He advised hikers to dress appropriately, bring ample food and water and let people know where you’re going to be. Also stay on main trails.

He thanked the two families, saying, “They’ve been very patient with us.”