One dead, one missing in Desolation WIlderness near South Lake Tahoe

One man is dead and another remains missing in Desolation Wilderness.

On Thursday, the Lake Tahoe El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of two elderly overdue campers in Desolation. Friday morning Thomas Anthony Hylton of Lincoln, Calif. was found dead at campsite approximately one mile south of Eagle Lake and west of Emerald Bay, said El Dorado County Sheriff’s Lt. Les Lovell.

Jerome Bernard Smith, also from Lincoln, remains missing. No foul play is suspected.

It is believed Smith, 78, became lost after leaving to get help for Hylton, 70.

Sgt. Jim Byers of the sheriff’s department said as many as 75 people were searching on foot and by helicopter Friday for Smith.

Any hikers in the area with information related Smith or Hylton are encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office. Smith is a white male adult, 5′-10″ tall, 160 pounds, blue eyes and balding. If seen please call(530) 621-6600.

” Sun News Service