On December 26, 2022, California Highway Patrol dispatch, Yreka Communications Center, received a 9-1-1 call from Cecilville. The reporting party gave dispatch the GPS coordinates of a vehicle that had rolled off the roadway and down a hillside/cliff. The reporting party climbed down (prior to the inclement weather) to the vehicle and located a deceased male.
California Highway Patrol officers responded along with Etna Ambulance and Forks of Salmon Fire and Rescue. The rain and winds made it difficult and dangerous for first responders who were trying to reach the deceased individual. The search and recovery were postponed due to safety concerns, and a request was made for assistance from the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team.
On December 27, members of the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team and Mountain Medics returned to the scene and recovered Alberto Mena, a 92 year old missing person from the Yreka Area. The California Highway Patrol is conducting an investigation into the crash, anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Mr. Mena prior to the crash are encouraged to call (530) 842-0530.
