In the early-morning hours of Saturday, May 14, Riverside County Sheriff’s Cabazon Station deputies responded to the Palm Springs Tram regarding a report of a hiker in need of rescue. The lone hiker, identified as Daniel De Bias of La Quinta, was reported missing by friends after not returning on time and believed to be in need of assistance.
The Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit was mobilized and responded at first light to the top of the Palm Springs Tram Station to begin their rescue efforts. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit responded and was able to locate De Bias at about 12:15 p.m. in Caramba Camp along Tahquitz Creek, and guided the RMRU members to De Bias. After safely reaching him, and escorting De Bias to a safe location, the Sheriff’s Aviation Unit was able to transport De Bias and the RMRU members to the base of the Palm Springs Tram Station.
Deputies escorted De Bias back to his vehicle in good spirits. De Bias did not require medical treatment.
The Sheriff’s Department would like to remind hiking enthusiasts to carry appropriate equipment for any outdoor excursion. Proper preparedness includes a well thought-out travel plan shared with friends and family, as well as familiarity with common hiking equipment, such as G.P.S., maps and compasses. RMRU offers several helpful, lifesaving tips at its website (www.rmru.org).
