On November 1, 2020, at approximately 3:45 pm, the Sierra County Sheriff's Office received a report of a mountain biker over the hillside on the Pauley Creek/Butcher Ranch Mountain Bike Trail east of Downieville, California. The Sierra County Sheriff's Office, along with Downieville and Sierra City Fire Departments, responded to the remote mountainous trail and attempted to locate the mountain biker. The California Highway Patrol helicopter was requested and responded to assist in the search. Due to the area's remote and steepness, searchers could not reach the biker, and the Nevada County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Ropes and Motorcycle Teams responded to assist. At approximately 3:00 am, the missing mountain biker was located, but due to the steep mountain cliffs, rescuers could not reach him. Despite their best efforts, Nevada County Search and Rescue had to suspend the rescue for the night.
At first light, a Blackhawk rescue helicopter from the Naval Station Fallon responded to assist. In addition to the rescue helicopter, the Placer County Sheriff's Office Ropes Team responded to assist in reaching the subject. At approximately 9:30 am, team members with the rescue helicopter were able to reach the subject and hoist him into the helicopter. Unfortunately, Alejandro Lugo of Florida had succumbed to his injuries.
The Sierra County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all the agencies involved with the search and our sincere condolences to Mr. Lugo's family and friends.
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