Earlier today, Medford Alert reached out to Public Information Officer (PIO) Aaron Lewis with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for an update on the search for missing Ashland mushroom hunter, John Early.
Here is the response we received from authorities:
“Still out searching everyday. For the first six days it was 24 hours a day with the help of neighboring county SAR agencies. Teams are searching using multiple search assets including aircraft (fixed wing and helo), horseback, ATV, 4×4 vehicles, ground teams (hiking), drone, K9, everything we’ve got.”
PIO Lewis also gave a bit of insight into the manner in which the search is being conducted at this time:
“Lately the teams have been doing targeted area searches. Deputies are also using investigatory means to attempt to locate in case he was picked up and/or not in the designated search area.”
John Early and a friend were on a camping trip about a week ago when they separated while mushroom hunting. He is described as 6’2” tall, weighing 200 pounds, with fair skin, blue eyes, and red hair. He was last seen wearing a long john style shirt with a hoodie, jeans, and hiking boots.
Authorities say Mr. Early does not have a vehicle and does not drive. If anyone has seen him or possibly given him a ride, call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference JCSO case 23-2406.
