In a tragic turn of events, a 66-year-old traveling nurse named Ann Herford has gone missing while hiking near Arnold, California. The authorities from the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office commenced a search operation after receiving a report about her disappearance on the Arnold Rim Trail. Concerns were raised on November 15 when Herford failed to show up for work at a hospital in Sonora.

The unsettling situation began unfolding after Herford, a day hiker from Michigan expressed her desire to explore the trails of California during a breakfast conversation with a friend on November 11. The last sighting of her was near the trailhead. Authorities discovered her vehicle parked at the Arnold Rim Trail trailhead on November 15.

Passionate hiker missing after a journey in the dark

Despite being a day hiker, Herford was known to have a preference for not staying late into the night, which has intensified the urgency of the search efforts. Brandon Neal, her nephew, emphasized how enthusiastic she was about exploring and appreciating the mountains of California. The disappearance has left colleagues and friends filled with anxiety as they hope for Herford’s return.

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Speaking to the media after learning of the news, her colleague Anna Wettengel said Herford overjoyed to step out in the open and explore the rocky mountains of California. “Our hearts went into our gut and we were starting to get really scared. When we met her, she had the biggest smile on her face.”

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“She was super excited to come in and help out any way she could and was amazing. She wanted to take advantage of hiking and going to see the mountains up here,” Wettengel told KCRA.

Family and friends cling on to hope

The search operation carried out on November 18 involved resources, including 120 searchers, five dog teams, and aircraft. The Sheriff’s Office, in Calaveras County, is currently searching for any information regarding the location of Herford. They are urging individuals who have details to get in touch with them at 209 754 6500.

Arnold, the location where her vehicle was last spotted, is almost 100 miles southeast of Sacramento. Her family, friends, and the whole community are on the edge as the search intensifies. Everyone hopes there is a quick resolution to the sudden and tragic disappearance of the bubbly Herford. She was a beloved member of the medical community with an infectious passion for exploring.

The developing situation serves as a grave reminder of the unpredictability of venturing outdoors and the importance of safety measures during hikes.

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