More search and rescue teams called in for missing Ramona man

The sheriff’s department is asking residents who live in the area of Highland Valley and Handlebar roads to thoroughly search their properties, including all out-buildings, for Carl Salayer, a 67-year-old Ramona man who has been missing since Tuesday morning.

“If you think you see something, call us,” said Jan Caldwell, San Diego County Sheriff’s Department public affairs director. Anyone who believes they see him should call 911.

Salayer, who has Alzheimer’s disease and other medical conditions, is believed to have walked away from his home in the 17000 block of Handlebar Road between 2:30 and 6:30 a.m. Tuesday and could be clad only in undergarments, according to the sheriff’s department.

“This is an extremely hard search in the sense there’s so many nooks and crannies,” said Caldwell. “He could be anywhere.”

The sheriff’s department said Salayer may run if approached.

“If you see him, don’t approach him,” said Caldwell, but added to keep an eye on him if possible while calling 911.

On Thursday morning the sheriff’s department, which has a command post at Highland Valley and Handlebar roads, had called in search and rescue teams from San Bernadino and Riverside counties, some arriving with horses. Caldwell explained that search and rescue teams are volunteers and some local teams had to return to their jobs. The teams will attempt to re-trace Salayer’s steps, starting from Salayer’s house that he shares with his wife and extended family members, said Caldwell.

Border Patrol’s Search, Trauma, and Rescue Unit (BORSTAR) is also participating in the search and Caldwell noted that the American Red Cross has aided searchers by supplying food and water.

According to Caldwell, two tips had come in — one on 12th Street and one in Lakeside — but did not produce any results.

She credited the Ramona community for its support.

“The community has been fabulous. Ramona is a great community,” said Caldwell.