> At a Glance
> – Eryn VanAcker, 40, was recovered from the North Fork of the American River on Jan. 5
> – She vanished while walking her dog on Jan. 2; the dog was found unattended 15 minutes later
> – Dive teams, drones, K9s, and marine units joined the three-day search
> – Why it matters: The tragedy highlights the dangers of fast-moving Sierra rivers even for experienced hikers
A California day hike turned fatal when Eryn VanAcker disappeared along the river trail she walked daily. After 72 hours of intensive searching, crews recovered her body only yards from where her dog had been found waiting.
The Discovery
On Monday, Jan. 5, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office confirmed dive teams located VanAcker in the North Fork of the American River.
The coordinated effort paired:
- CAL FIRE NEU/PCFD Technical Rescue Team divers
- NEU UAS drone for underwater imaging
- Cal OES FIRIS aircraft overhead
> “This outcome is not what anyone hoped for. Our deepest condolences are with Eryn’s family, friends, and loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
> – Placer County Sheriff’s Office
Timeline of Events
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Jan. 2 | 2:30 p.m. | Last seen walking dog on river trail |
| Jan. 2 | 2:45 p.m. | Dog found unattended by passers-by |
| Jan. 2 | 6:00 p.m. | Search launched; vehicle, phone, dog bowl located nearby |
| Jan. 5 | morning | Body recovered from the river |
Investigators believe VanAcker entered the water upstream from Lake Clementine and was swept away by the swift current.
Key Takeaways
- 40-year-old Eryn VanAcker was recovered three days after vanishing
- Multi-agency response included raft teams, drones, K9s, marine units, and dive teams
- Her unharmed dog led searchers to the riverside starting point
- Officials thanked “the many agencies and personnel who worked tirelessly throughout this search”
The Sheriff’s Office urged the public to “keep Eryn’s loved ones in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”
