Tiffany Slaton survives blizzard and three weeks in California wilderness – her parents and local authorities call it a miracle
California authorities say they are “blown away” after 27-year-old Tiffany Slaton – a Bermudian camper missing for nearly three weeks – was found alive and well near Lake Edison in Fresno County.
The rescue came just one day before her 28th birthday.
(SCROLL DOWN for full press announcement with Ms Slaton’s parents)
Ms Slaton, a resident of Georgia, was discovered Wednesday afternoon after the owner of Vermilion Valley Resort found one of his cabins unexpectedly occupied. Aware of the ongoing search, he recognized her from media reports and immediately contacted authorities.
Tiffany’s survival is being hailed as “miraculous,” with Public Information Officer Tony Botti of the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office telling reporters, “three weeks [in the mountains] – it’s unheard of. We’re blown away… it speaks to the tenacity that Tiffany has – she’s a fighter. She’s not going to give up.”
Ms Slaton endured a blizzard and harsh wilderness conditions after setting out on a solo camping trip on April 20. She had last been seen on April 24, and was officially reported missing by her Georgia-based family on April 29.
The owner of the resort where Ms Slaton was found had intentionally left a cabin unlocked for emergency situations such as this, “where someone who is lost could seek shelter and increase their chances of surviving the outdoor elements and harsh weather”.
Tiffany’s parents, Bobby and Frederina, said without this business-owners foresight, they may not be celebrating a happy ending to their story.
On her way down the mountain with rescuers, Tiffany called her father and said: “Dad, I’m alive and I’m sorry, but I’m alive.”
A massive search effort had been underway since May 6, covering nearly 600 square miles of rugged mountain terrain. Due to snow-packed roads, parts of the area were inaccessible until this week.
More interviews and updates from the Slaton family and Fresno County authorities are expected in the coming days.
Watch the full press briefing with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and Tiffany’s parents below.
