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

Felix Dubois

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

4.1

Share

Details of the Missing Person

Eleanor Vance, 79 years old, was last seen in Portola Valley Preserve on October 26, 2023, at approximately 2:00 PM. She is described as 5'4" tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with gray hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a purple fleece jacket, blue jeans, and brown hiking boots. She has a noticeable scar above her left eyebrow. Mrs. Vance suffers from early-stage dementia and may be disoriented.

She was believed to be carrying a small brown leather purse containing her wallet, phone (an iPhone 12, case is faded pink), and car keys. Her phone is currently unreachable.

Contact Information:

• Sheriff's Department: (650) 592-4411
• Email: [email protected] (replace with actual email)

Bullet Points:

• Specific clothing description: Purple fleece jacket (size medium), blue jeans (size 8), brown leather hiking boots (size 7).
• Identifying jewelry or accessories: A silver bracelet with a small heart charm.
• Last known location: Near the Sycamore Creek trailhead in Portola Valley Preserve.

The Ongoing Search and Rescue Operation

The Portola Valley Preserve search involves a large-scale operation with over 100 personnel, including deputies from the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, members of the San Mateo County Search and Rescue Team, canine units, and numerous volunteers. Search methods include ground searches, drone surveillance with thermal imaging capabilities, and canine tracking. The search is currently focused on areas near Sycamore Creek and surrounding trails.

The challenging terrain of Portola Valley Preserve, coupled with the time elapsed since Mrs. Vance's disappearance and unpredictable weather conditions, are significant obstacles. Despite these challenges, the search teams remain dedicated and persistent in their efforts. Several potential leads are being investigated, but so far no confirmed sightings have been reported.

Bullet Points:

• Types of search and rescue teams participating: San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, San Mateo County Search and Rescue, volunteer search and rescue teams.
• Technologies employed: Drones equipped with thermal imaging, GPS tracking devices, canine units.
• Areas of the preserve where the search is concentrated: Sycamore Creek trailhead and surrounding areas.
• Updates on the progress of the search: Regular updates are being posted on the Sheriff's Department website and social media channels.

Community Involvement and Public Appeal

The community has rallied together in support of the Portola Valley Preserve search effort. Local businesses have organized donation drives for search teams, and volunteers are assisting with tasks such as distributing flyers and coordinating search efforts. The public's assistance is crucial in bringing Mrs. Vance home safely.

We urge everyone to share this information widely on social media, using the hashtag #FindEleanorVance. Check your security cameras for any footage that may have captured Mrs. Vance. Even the smallest detail could make a significant difference.

Bullet Points:

• Social media hashtags: #FindEleanorVance #PortolaValleyPreserveSearch #MissingPerson
• Websites and online resources: [Sheriff's Department Website] (replace with actual website)
• Specific instructions on how to report information: Contact the Sheriff's Department immediately at (650) 592-4411 or email [email protected]

Safety Considerations within Portola Valley Preserve

Anyone participating in the search or visiting the preserve should prioritize safety. Stay on marked trails, carry plenty of water and snacks, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and be aware of changing weather conditions. Be mindful of wildlife and take necessary precautions to avoid injury.

Conclusion

The search for Eleanor Vance in Portola Valley Preserve remains ongoing. The combined efforts of the community, law enforcement, and search and rescue teams are vital to a successful outcome. Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial in bringing her home safely. Anyone with information related to this Portola Valley Preserve search is urged to contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department at (650) 592-4411 immediately. Remember to share this information widely to help amplify the Portola Valley Preserve search for this missing 79-year-old woman. Further updates will be provided as they become available. Please continue to help with the Portola Valley Preserve search.