Update: Search Continues For Missing Senior In Portola Valley Preserve

Viktoria Ivanova

3 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Details of the Missing Senior

Eleanor Vance, 78, is described as a Caucasian female, standing 5'4" tall and weighing approximately 130 pounds. She was last seen wearing a blue sweater, beige trousers, and brown walking shoes. Eleanor has short, gray hair and blue eyes. She requires regular medication for a heart condition, and her absence is causing significant concern. A recent photograph of Eleanor is available on the Portola Valley Police Department's Facebook page.

• Last known location: Near the Redwood Grove trailhead in the Portola Valley Preserve.
• Time of disappearance: Approximately 4:00 PM, October 26, 2023.
• Belongings left behind: Her walking stick and a partially-filled water bottle were found near the trailhead.

Search and Rescue Efforts

A comprehensive search and rescue operation is underway, involving a coordinated effort between the Portola Valley Police Department, the Portola Valley Fire Department, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue team, and numerous volunteers from the local community.

The search employs a multi-pronged approach:

• Ground Search: Teams are systematically searching the extensive trails and wooded areas of the Portola Valley Preserve.
• Aerial Search: A helicopter equipped with thermal imaging technology is assisting in the search, covering a wide expanse of the preserve.
• Canine Units: Specially trained search and rescue dogs are deployed to assist in locating Eleanor.
• Drones: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras are being utilized to scan difficult-to-reach areas.

The search area encompasses approximately 1,000 acres of varied terrain, presenting challenges including steep inclines, dense vegetation, and potentially hazardous weather conditions. Currently, efforts are focused on the area surrounding the Redwood Grove trailhead and adjacent creek beds.

Community Involvement and Assistance

The community's support is invaluable in this search. Numerous volunteers have already stepped forward to aid in the search effort, demonstrating the strong sense of community spirit in Portola Valley. Several local businesses have organized fundraising efforts to support the search and the Vance family.

The public can help in several ways:

• Share this article and other related social media posts: Spreading the word is crucial in increasing the chances of Eleanor's safe return.

• Provide information to authorities: If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the Portola Valley Police Department immediately at (650) 564-7200.

• Support the family: Donations can be made to a GoFundMe page set up to support the Vance family during this difficult time (link to be added).

• Social Media: Follow #FindEleanorVance on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

• Contact Information: Portola Valley Police Department (650) 564-7200.

Latest Updates and Developments

(This section will be updated regularly with any new information.)

• October 27, 2023, 10:00 AM: Search teams have expanded their efforts to include the adjacent area of the preserve, focusing on areas with water sources.

Conclusion

The search for missing senior Eleanor Vance in the Portola Valley Preserve remains an urgent priority. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement, emergency services, and the community are crucial in bringing her home safely. The diverse search methods employed highlight the commitment to finding Eleanor, but community involvement is paramount. If you have any information, please contact the Portola Valley Police Department immediately at (650) 564-7200. Help bring this missing senior home safely. Share this update to help in the ongoing search for the missing senior in Portola Valley Preserve. Let's work together to ensure Eleanor's safe return. We will continue to update this article with the latest developments. #FindEleanorVance