The search for four missing hikers continues in Caesars Head State Park, South Carolina, following a frantic 911 call made on Monday night by a 14-year-old girl, stating that she and her family members had been unaccounted for for nearly three hours. The missing individuals have been identified as Tonda Michelin, her 14-year-old granddaughter Melody Bangs, and two younger siblings, Michael Lawton (11) and Kevin, referred to as Dale Moser (9).
What Happened:
On Monday evening, the missing group of hikers, who had gone out on a hike in the Raven Cliff Falls area of Caesars Head State Park, contacted authorities after they failed to return to their vehicle. In the distress call, the 14-year-old explained that she, her siblings, and their grandmother were lost and unable to find their way back. This prompted an immediate search response.
Search Efforts Underway:
A substantial search operation, involving more than 50 personnel, has been initiated to locate the missing family. The team includes deputies, park rangers, SLED (South Carolina Law Enforcement Division) agents, and members of the SC National Guard. They are combing through the park’s rugged terrain in search of the missing hikers.
The search effort is being supported by advanced technology, including helicopters and drones, to help cover the difficult-to-reach areas of the park. Authorities have also confirmed that a white Nissan matching the description of the family’s vehicle was discovered parked at the Raven Cliff Falls trailhead, helping narrow down the possible locations where the hikers could be.
Community and Official Response:
The missing family’s disappearance has prompted an outpouring of support from local authorities and the community. Authorities have stressed that the search will continue until all members are located and brought to safety. The search is made more challenging due to the difficult and often steep terrain of the state park, which can make navigation and visibility challenging even with the use of helicopters and drones.
What Happens Next:
Authorities are asking anyone who may have information or seen the family in the area to come forward and assist the search efforts. The community is urged to remain vigilant as the search continues, with hopes that the missing hikers will be safely found soon.
As the search continues, all eyes are on the efforts of the first responders, with everyone hoping for a safe and timely return of the missing family.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
The post Ongoing Search for Missing Hikers at Caesars Head State Park first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
