Missing Snowboarder Found Dead in Sierra Wilderness
MARKLEEVILLE, Calif. — An 18-year-old snowboarder missing for almost a week was found dead Sunday in a remote mountain area, authorities said.
Ryan Joseph Rush’s body was found in the Mokelumne Wilderness by a search-and-rescue team that had been airlifted to the region, according to the Alpine County sheriff’s office.
Rush had last been seen Jan. 5 at the Bear Valley Ski Area, where he was snowboarding.
Authorities said a friend initially claimed to have given Rush a ride home, but later acknowledged that he had not done so, and that Rush had last been seen at the ski area.
Late Saturday afternoon, searchers found tracks leading into a remote section of the Mokelumne Wilderness.
Because of darkness, however, they were unable to complete the search until Sunday, when they found Rush’s body.
Authorities said no hometown for Rush was immediately available.
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