Torrance boy found after going missing in central California woods – NBC Los Angeles

Lina Portman2 weeks ago

0 1 minute read

A South Bay family is expressing gratitude to Central California search and rescue teams after successfully finding a 4-year-old boy who went missing during a camping trip.

Cristian Ramirez is safely back with his parents after being separated from them while camping near Huntington Lake, according to his parents and the Tulare County Sheriff's Office. The young boy was missing for almost a day and thanks to the tenacious search of around fifty deputies and volunteers, he was fortunately found.

“We didn't let our search crews in last night,” said Lt. Brandon Purcell of the Fresno County Sheriff's Office. “They stayed out all night looking.”

Around 8 a.m. Friday, the Tulare County Search and Rescue team found the child about a quarter-mile from where he was reported missing. Authorities described him as being in good health, but “just tired and hungry” when he was found.

“He went missing around 10 o'clock yesterday morning and we got a call around 11 o'clock,” Purcell said. “Our search began at that time and then we deployed our search and rescue personnel. So since 11 o'clock yesterday morning we have been searching and we haven't stopped.

According to Purcell, Ramirez was found nestled under a tree.

“He was in the woods. He was in a very thick wooded area and he stayed there all night,” Purcell said. “As for nights, we're going to have to spend time with the child.” The kid is really shaken today.

In a statement to NBC4, the boy's parents said they were extremely relieved that their child was safe and credited his safety to the dedicated team who found him.

“We are very grateful to the Fresno (search and rescue) team and the Fresno Sheriff's Department for their hard work in finding our little boy,” Cristian's parents said. “They worked tirelessly to bring him home safely. Cristian is happy, hungry and in a good mood. Thank you all for your prayers, and most importantly, we are blessed to serve a God who works miracles.