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

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Details of the Missing Person

The missing woman is identified as Eleanor Vance, 79 years old. Ms. Vance is described as being 5'4" tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with shoulder-length gray hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a blue jacket, beige hiking pants, and brown hiking boots. Ms. Vance has a noticeable scar above her left eyebrow.

• Name: Eleanor Vance
• Age: 79
• Height: 5'4"
• Weight: Approximately 120 pounds
• Hair: Shoulder-length gray
• Eyes: Blue
• Clothing: Blue jacket, beige hiking pants, brown hiking boots
• Distinguishing Feature: Scar above left eyebrow
• Last Known Location: Near Redwood Creek Trailhead in the Portola Valley Preserve
• Time of Disappearance: Approximately 2:00 PM

Ms. Vance suffers from early-stage Alzheimer's disease, and this condition is a significant concern for search and rescue teams. Anyone who has seen her or has any information regarding her whereabouts is urged to contact authorities immediately.

The Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts

The Portola Valley Preserve search involves a coordinated effort from multiple agencies and volunteers. Teams currently participating include:

• Portola Valley Police Department
• California State Parks Rangers
• San Mateo County Sheriff's Search and Rescue
• Multiple volunteer search and rescue teams
• K9 units
• Helicopters

Search methods employed include:

• Ground search teams covering the extensive trail network
• Aerial searches using helicopters to cover a wider area
• Canine units utilizing specially trained dogs to track scents

The rugged terrain of the Portola Valley Preserve, characterized by steep hills, dense vegetation, and unpredictable weather, presents significant challenges to the search. The search area currently encompasses approximately 5 square miles, but this may expand as the search progresses. So far, no significant clues have been discovered.

Community Involvement and Public Appeal

The Portola Valley community is rallying together in support of the search. The police department is urging the public to assist in any way possible.

• How you can help: If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the Portola Valley Police Department at (650) 851-0300.
• Social Media: Follow #FindEleanorVance and #PortolaValleySearch on social media for updates.
• Volunteer: While organized volunteer efforts are being coordinated through the Portola Valley Police Department, individuals are advised to contact them directly before heading to the preserve to assist.

The community is organizing a prayer vigil and information distribution point at the Portola Valley Town Center on [Date and Time].

Safety Advice for Hikers in the Portola Valley Preserve

The disappearance of Ms. Vance underscores the importance of safety precautions when hiking in the Portola Valley Preserve or any wilderness area.

• Always inform someone of your hiking plans: Tell a friend or family member where you are going, what trails you plan to take, and when you expect to return.
• Bring essential supplies: Pack plenty of water, a map and compass (or GPS device), a first-aid kit, a fully charged cell phone, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
• Stay on marked trails: Avoid venturing off-trail, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to weather changes, potential hazards, and your physical limitations.

Conclusion: Join the Portola Valley Preserve Search Efforts

The search for Eleanor Vance remains urgent. Her disappearance highlights the potential dangers of hiking, even in seemingly familiar areas. The Portola Valley Preserve search requires the collective effort of the community, law enforcement, and search and rescue teams. We urge everyone to share this article, spread awareness using the hashtags #FindEleanorVance and #PortolaValleySearch, and contact the Portola Valley Police Department at (650) 851-0300 with any information that might assist in bringing Ms. Vance home safely. Your help in the Portola Valley Preserve search could make all the difference. Even a small piece of information can be crucial. Let's work together to bring Eleanor home.