The City of Duarte Public Safety Department is sharing information regarding a successful multi-agency rescue that took place on Thursday, November 20, in the foothills above Bradbury Canyon.

At 6:33 PM on Thursday, November 20, a 15-year old hiker called 911 after becoming stranded in deteriorating weather conditions. The teen had set out earlier in the day but was unable to make his way out as rain and cold weather intensified.

The Duarte Public Safety drone team deployed immediately and located the teen on a ridge approximately half a mile northeast of Bliss Canyon Road using thermal imaging. This rapid identification allowed responding crews to focus their search area and coordinate an effective response.

Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, SMSR, along with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deployed resources and moved through heavy brush and unstable terrain to reach the teen. SMSR teams arrived at approximately 8:30 PM, conducted a medical assessment, and determined he was mildly hypothermic. Crews provided dry clothing, warming measures, and assisted him downhill to an extraction point. A Los Angeles County Fire Department helicopter then hoisted the teen from the ridge for further medical evaluation. SMSR personnel later hiked out safely.

“This rescue showed the strength of coordinated public safety response,” said Larry Breceda, Director of Public Safety for the City of Duarte. “Our new drone program proved essential in quickly locating the hiker and giving ground crews the information they needed. I’m proud of the teamwork between our Public Safety staff, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, and LA County Fire. Their quick actions ensured this young man received the help he needed.”

Public Safety officials also commended the teen for calling 911 immediately and sheltering in place, which helped rescuers locate him efficiently in challenging conditions.