Tiffany Slaton, a U.S. resident with ties to Bermuda, has now been missing for more than two weeks in California
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office said it has scaled back its active search for missing camper Tiffany Slaton, after five days and nights of intensive efforts to locate her or her belongings.
Although originally from Georgia, Ms Slaton is also Bermudian, and has represented Bermuda in archery at several international competitions, including the NatWest Island Games, where she won a silver medal in 2017.
The 27-year-old was last known to be solo camping in the Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake area of California following a workaway programme. Her trip was described by her parents as a “bucket list” adventure before starting medical school.
Ms Slaton had maintained regular contact with her family throughout her travels. However, when they failed to hear from her after April 20, they filed a missing person report with law enforcement.
Speaking to Bermuda Broadcasting last week, her parents, Bobby and Frederina Slaton, described the ordeal as a nightmare, saying, “It’s like time has completely stopped for us.”
The Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team has covered nearly 600 square miles in their efforts – from Mono Hot Springs to Wishon Reservoir, Pine Flat Lake to Auberry, and all areas in between – but have found no trace of Ms Slaton or her belongings.
The last confirmed sighting of her was on April 24, when witnesses reported seeing her near the old Cressman’s General Store.
In a recent media release, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office stated: “Detectives are now asking the public to notify them of any video they may have captured on or around April 24. This includes surveillance cameras, dash cameras, etc. There is a possibility Slaton travelled along Auberry Road and past Pine Ridge School in order to access Highway 168.”
She is believed to have been traveling with a green and gray tent, a blue and black Lectric brand electric bicycle, and a small red trailer – none of which have been located.
“Although the SAR operation has been scaled back, the Sheriff’s Office is not stopping its search for Slaton,” a spokesperson said. “As more leads come in, we continue to investigate.”
Anyone with information or possible sightings is urged to contact the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111, referencing case number 25-4458.
Meanwhile, Ms Slaton’s family has launched a GoFundMe page to support their stay in California during the ongoing search.
The page reads: “We are in need of financial help for any and all expenses while we are in California. If you have the means to help, we would appreciate, any small or large help. Once Tiffany is found, all excess in funds will be given to her for medical help.”
As of this morning, donations have surpassed $16,000.
