Fresno County officials have halted an intensive five-day search for Tiffany Slaton, a 27-year-old camper who went missing in the Sierra Nevada region. Despite deploying about 30 volunteers and covering 600 square miles of challenging terrain using Jeeps, horses, and aircraft, no trace of Slaton or her gear has been found.
Slaton was last seen on April 24 carrying a tent on a stroller attached to her electric bike. Her family, concerned after losing contact on April 20, reported her missing on April 29.
Disappearance Raises Red Flags as Solo Traveler Breaks Contact During California Adventure Trip
The circumstances surrounding Slaton’s disappearance remain unclear, and while there was initially no indication of foul play, authorities now find the situation increasingly suspicious. Tony Botti, a spokesperson for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, noted that Slaton’s sudden lack of phone use and complete disappearance raise red flags. Officials are not yet able to determine whether the case involves an accident, intentional disappearance, or criminal activity.
Search for Missing Camper Tiffany Slaton Suspended as Family Pleads for Clues in Sierra Nevada
Slaton, originally from Jeffersonville, Georgia, had been traveling solo as part of a personal quest to explore all 50 states. Prior to her disappearance, she had completed a work contract as a dialysis technician in Oregon and planned to enter medical school. Her travels brought her to California, where she intended to visit Mono Hot Springs and work on a farm. Described by her father as athletic and adventurous, Slaton was known for keeping regular contact with her family, making her silence especially distressing.
Family Clings to Hope as Search for Missing Camper Slaton Shows No Progress
Bobby Slaton, Tiffany’s father, has been vocal about the emotional strain the disappearance has placed on the family. Speaking through a Zoom recording, he described the ordeal as a “nightmare” and emphasized that Tiffany’s adventurous spirit still had many journeys ahead.
The family is holding out hope that she is alive and simply stranded or lost rather than the victim of foul play. Their plea to the public reflects desperation and hope for any lead that could bring Tiffany home.
With no new evidence emerging, the search has been scaled back until further leads surface. Authorities have released a video of Slaton filmed on April 8 as she traveled from Santa Cruz to Fresno County, hoping the footage may jog public memory.
Officials encourage anyone with surveillance or dash cam footage from the area to come forward. They also hope the warmer weather will bring more people to the area, potentially leading to new sightings or clues. The investigation remains active, though no persons of interest have been identified.
