Tragic update in search for missing 24-year-old hiker who vanished in California canyon

A desperate search for a missing 24-year-old hiker who vanished in Placer County’s wild American Canyon has come to a tragic end after he was found dead Tuesday.

Ian Roberts, 24, drove to the remote rural riverway for a solo walk Friday and disappeared, triggering a massive hunt that drew emergency workers from across California to assist local authorities in their search.

Roberts’ body was discovered by the search team Tuesday, the third day of searching.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share Ian Roberts was located deceased today, August 25,” said Elise Soviar, spokeswoman for Placer County Sherriff’s Office, in a statement shared with the California Post.

“At this time, it appears he slipped and fell down a steep embankment,” said Soviar. “There’s no indication of foul play.”

Land and water search teams from Napa, Santa Clara, Marin and Sacramento counties had joined Placer County and other search teams in the massive hunt for Roberts.

Bordered by rugged gorges carved by three forks of the American River, the breathtaking American River Canyon area runs though the western Sierra Nevada foothills, extending from the Sierras to Folsom Lake.

Roberts, a regular hiker, most likely planned a rugged march through the canyons when he parked his car at Overlook Park in Auburn, which serves as a trailhead for several pathways.

He was reported missing by his parents on Saturday, triggering a search effort that drew hundreds of volunteers.  

The location where Roberts was found is in the Auburn State Recreation area and within Auburn City limits, said Soviar. The Auburn Police Department investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

Solivar said the Sherrif’s Office was grateful to those who aided in the search for the missing man.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Ian’s family and are grateful for their kindness and support throughout the search efforts,” she said.

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