Montrose Search and Rescue team members assisted in the search for a Glendale hiker in Loop Canyon in Sylmar.
“We got the call around 7 p.m on [July 10] and searched to [July 11] morning,” said Mike Leum of the Montrose Search and Rescue team.
According to Crescenta Valley Sheriff deputy Jeff Martin, Edwin Gallarza , 53, of Glendale was hiking with a friend in the Loop Canyon area. Both were experienced hikers.
The hiking partner reported that they had been climbing together when Gallarza saw another area he wanted to climb.
“That was the last time his friend saw him,” Leum said.
Gallarza had fallen down the side of the mountain. His friend contacted 911 and the search began on Thursday evening.
“The hiker was found Friday morning by helicopter,” Leum said.
Gallarza had reported that he heard the searchers and saw the helicopter and lights. He tried to get their attention but his shouts weren’t loud enough.
“He had some bumps and bruises but was OK,” Martin said. “He was an experienced hiker but got into trouble when he separated from his partner.”
