Portola Valley Preserve Search: 79-Year-Old Woman Still Missing

Aria Freeman

3 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Details about the Missing Woman

The missing woman is identified as Eleanor Vance, 79 years old. She is described as being 5'4" tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with short gray hair and blue eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a blue fleece jacket, beige hiking pants, and brown hiking boots. (A photograph of Eleanor Vance would be included here if available).

• Identifying Marks: Eleanor has a small birthmark on her left cheek.
• Medical Conditions: She suffers from mild dementia and is prone to disorientation.
• Last Known Location: Eleanor was last seen near the Redwood Grove Trailhead in Portola Valley Preserve around 2:00 PM on October 26, 2023.

The Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts

The Portola Valley Preserve search involves a coordinated effort by several agencies and dedicated volunteers. The search operation includes:

• Portola Valley Police Department: Leading the investigation and coordinating search efforts.
• San Mateo County Sheriff's Office: Providing additional resources and expertise.
• California State Parks Rangers: Assisting with ground searches within the preserve.
• Mountain View Search and Rescue: Deploying trained search and rescue personnel and canine units.
• Community Volunteers: Numerous volunteers are assisting with ground searches, covering designated areas of the preserve.

Search methods currently employed include:

• Extensive ground searches covering various trails and areas within the preserve.
• Aerial searches utilizing drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras.
• Canine units trained in locating missing persons.

The challenging terrain and the possibility of changing weather conditions pose significant challenges to the search teams. Despite these difficulties, the search continues relentlessly, expanding the search area as needed.

Community Involvement and Public Appeal

The community's help is crucial to the success of the Portola Valley Preserve search. If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact authorities immediately.

• How You Can Help:

  • If you were hiking in the Portola Valley Preserve on October 26th, 2023, and may have seen Eleanor Vance, please come forward.
  • Share this information widely on social media using the hashtag #FindEleanorVance.
  • Volunteer to assist search teams (contact the Portola Valley Police Department for details).

• Important Details: Eleanor was not known to be driving a vehicle at the time of her disappearance.

Contact Information: Anyone with information regarding Eleanor Vance’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Portola Valley Police Department immediately at (650) 851-2323.

Safety Tips for Hiking in Portola Valley Preserve

To ensure your safety while enjoying the beauty of Portola Valley Preserve, consider these essential tips:

• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Always tell a friend or family member where you are going, what trails you plan to hike, and when you expect to return.
• Carry a Fully Charged Phone: Ensure your cell phone is fully charged and consider bringing a portable charger.
• Stay on Marked Trails: Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost.
• Appropriate Gear: Wear sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Navigation Tools: Consider bringing a map, compass, or GPS device.

Conclusion: Join the Portola Valley Preserve Search Effort

Eleanor Vance's disappearance is a matter of grave concern, and the Portola Valley Preserve search is critical to bringing her home safely. The coordinated efforts of law enforcement, search and rescue teams, and dedicated volunteers are ongoing, but we need your help. Your information could be crucial to the Portola Valley Preserve search effort. Even the smallest detail might be the key to finding Eleanor. Please contact the Portola Valley Police Department at (650) 851-2323 with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Help us find her. Let's bring Eleanor home safely. The Portola Valley Preserve search relies on the collective efforts of the community.