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Missing Elderly Couple Located and Safe

PRESCOTT ARIZONA (February 2, 2023) – The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office Forest Patrol, with assistance from our Yavapai County Search and Rescue 4x4 Team (YCSRT 4x4), Off Highway Vehicle (YCSRT OHV) Team, and Department of Public Safety (DPS), is pleased to report that missing couple, Mike and Catherine Pena and their dog Daphnee have been safely located. 

On January 31, 2023, the couple took their truck out for a drive to Palace Station. On their way home they got stuck in treacherous road conditions on Senator Highway. The couple ended up spending two nights trapped in the ice and snowy road. Fortunately, they stayed put, conserved their fuel, and had food and water which helped the search effort and their safety immensely. 

During the search, YCSO, DPS, and the Search and Rescue teams including 20 volunteers, worked 87 man hours and covered about 1300 miles of main roads between Prescott and Crown King and all off-road areas between Wilhoit and Crown King. DPS Ranger air lifted both Mike and Catherine to safety and Daphnee the Dachshund was driven out by YCSO volunteers. They are all now safe and sound. 

We are happy to report that no one was injured in this incident, and everyone is doing well. YCSO would like to thank our volunteers and DPS and remind everyone to be cautious and prepared when adventuring outdoors. We cannot stress enough to bring adequate food, water, maps/gps (preferably of the area being adventured), flashlights, battery life for cell phones, clothing layers, and sun protection.