Update: Search For Missing Woman (79) In Portola Valley Preserve

Rajiv Sharma

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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A large-scale search is currently underway for a 79-year-old woman missing within the Portola Valley Preserve. This article provides the latest updates on the ongoing search and details crucial information for anyone who may be able to assist in bringing her home safely. The search involves multiple agencies and community volunteers, highlighting the widespread concern for her well-being. This missing person case requires immediate attention and public cooperation.

The Missing Person

The missing woman is identified as Eleanor Vance, 79 years old. Ms. Vance is described as 5'4" tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with shoulder-length gray hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a purple fleece jacket, blue jeans, and hiking boots. Ms. Vance does not have any known tattoos or distinguishing scars. She suffers from early-onset dementia, which is a significant concern for search and rescue teams.

• Name: Eleanor Vance
• Age: 79
• Height: 5'4"
• Weight: 120 lbs
• Hair: Gray, shoulder-length
• Eyes: Blue
• Clothing: Purple fleece jacket, blue jeans, hiking boots
• Medical Condition: Early-onset dementia

[Insert photograph of Eleanor Vance here, if available and legally permissible]

Timeline of Events

Ms. Vance was last seen at approximately 2:00 PM on October 26, 2023, near the Redwood Grove trailhead in the Portola Valley Preserve. She was reportedly hiking alone. Her family reported her missing at 7:00 PM the same day after she failed to return home as expected. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance are currently under investigation.

• Last Seen: October 26, 2023, 2:00 PM
• Location: Redwood Grove trailhead, Portola Valley Preserve
• Reported Missing: 7:00 PM, October 26, 2023
• Circumstances: Hiking alone

Search and Rescue Efforts

The search for Ms. Vance involves a collaborative effort between the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, Portola Valley Police Department, California State Parks Rangers, and several volunteer search and rescue teams. Search methods include ground searches, aerial searches using drones, and K9 units trained in locating missing persons. The challenging terrain and potentially unpredictable weather conditions within the preserve are impacting the search efforts. Volunteers are crucial to this effort; those interested in assisting should contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office at [Phone Number].

• Agencies Involved: San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, Portola Valley Police Department, California State Parks Rangers, Volunteer Search and Rescue Teams
• Search Methods: Ground search, aerial search (drones), K9 units
• Volunteer Assistance: Contact San Mateo County Sheriff's Office at [Phone Number]
• Challenges: Difficult terrain, potential for changing weather conditions

Public Appeal for Information

Ms. Vance was carrying a small backpack containing water, a granola bar, and a compass. Anyone who may have seen her or has any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is urged to contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office immediately. A reward of $5,000 is being offered for information leading to her safe return.

• Items Carried: Small backpack with water, granola bar, and compass
• Contact: San Mateo County Sheriff's Office at [Phone Number] and/or [Email Address]
• Reward: $5,000

Safety Precautions for the Portola Valley Preserve

The Portola Valley Preserve offers beautiful hiking trails, but it's essential to prioritize safety. Before embarking on any hike, always inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time. Carry a fully charged cell phone, plenty of water, a map, compass, and other necessary survival gear. Stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings. Never hike alone, especially in remote areas.

• Inform Someone: Share your hiking plans and expected return time.
• Carry Essentials: Cell phone, water, map, compass, first-aid kit.
• Stay on Trails: Avoid venturing off marked paths.
• Hike with a Buddy: Avoid hiking alone, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Conclusion

The search for the missing 79-year-old woman, Eleanor Vance, in the Portola Valley Preserve remains ongoing. Multiple agencies and volunteers are working tirelessly to locate her safely. The public's assistance is crucial in this effort. Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be vital.

Call to Action: If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Eleanor Vance, please contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office immediately at [Phone Number] and/or [Email Address]. Your help in the search for this missing woman in the Portola Valley Preserve could be life-saving. Share this article to spread awareness and aid in the search efforts. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in bringing her home.