Search and Rescue Team Locates Stuck California Man in Snow

Douglas County, Oregon- In the early hours of March 2, 2024, Douglas County 9-1-1 received a text-to-911 message from an individual stranded in the snow after blindly following GPS directions. The stranded traveler, identified as 34-year-old Juan Carlos Torres-Esquivel from Santa Rosa, California, found himself in need of assistance after encountering weather-related delays on his journey from Corvallis to Santa Rosa.

Torres-Esquivel had purchased a 1996 Ford F150 in Corvallis and was en route to his residence in Santa Rosa when winter weather forced him onto an alternate route suggested by Google Maps. The detour instructed him to exit onto Upper Cow Creek, then proceed south onto Snow Creek Rd.

However, approximately 5 miles into his detour, Torres-Esquivel’s vehicle slid into a deep ditch, leaving him stranded in approximately 24 inches of snow. Despite attempts to free the vehicle without proper equipment, he remained stuck and in need of rescue.

Douglas County Search and Rescue (SAR) mobilized to assist Torres-Esquivel. However, their efforts were impeded by an abandoned U-Haul truck further up Snow Creek Rd, obstructing passage for the Snowcat. SAR members utilized their 4×4 team, successfully navigating around the obstacle after deflating their tires, and retrieved Torres-Esquivel.

Following his rescue, Torres-Esquivel was provided with a courtesy ride to Seven Feathers by deputies. Lt. Brad O’Dell from the Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of caution when relying on GPS navigation, stating, “Blindly following GPS devices can potentially lead to dangerous situations and have serious consequences. Although travel delays can be disruptive, it is best to remain on routes that are maintained.”

This incident serves as a reminder for drivers to exercise caution and discretion when navigating unfamiliar terrain, especially during adverse weather conditions, and to prioritize safety over expediency when choosing routes.