Fresno man rescued after six-day search in remote Pine Flat Lake area

Published: Monday, July 6, 2026 at 5:40 am

Fresno Man Found Alive After Six-Day Wilderness Ordeal

A Fresno man has been successfully rescued after a harrowing six-day period lost in a remote wilderness area near Pine Flat Lake. Rondy Packard Sr., 70, was reported missing on the morning of June 28, having failed to return from a fishing excursion. A witness later reported seeing him driving his Nissan pickup truck eastbound on Trimmer Springs Road, an area where his cell phone also registered a signal.

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office initially coordinated search efforts after Packard's family conducted their own preliminary searches. The operation was subsequently expanded by authorities, involving members of the Search and Rescue Team who conducted extensive ground and aerial searches. Lieutenant Kathy Curtis of the Sheriff's Office expressed the immense relief felt by all involved, acknowledging the significant stress endured by Packard's family throughout the week. Concerns were also raised about the rising temperatures and Packard's potential access to food and water.

The breakthrough came on Saturday afternoon when a volunteer from an Air Squadron located Packard's truck in a highly remote section of terrain, approximately 20 miles northeast of the lake. Search teams reached the site about ninety minutes later and discovered Packard in close proximity to his vehicle. Due to the challenging landscape, a California Highway Patrol helicopter was utilized to safely hoist Packard from the location and transport him for necessary medical attention.

Packard was found to have sustained no major injuries and is anticipated to make a complete recovery. His family has been reunited with him at the hospital, where he is receiving treatment. Officials are continuing their investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his prolonged disappearance in the wilderness.

BNN's Perspective: This rescue highlights the dedication of search and rescue teams and the critical role of community vigilance. While the outcome is overwhelmingly positive, it also serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with remote outdoor activities and the importance of preparedness.

Tags: Fresno man rescued, Pine Flat Lake, fishing trip, missing, search and rescue, wilderness, Independence Day, Rondy Packard Sr., Fresno County Sheriff's Office, Air Squadron, California Highway Patrol, medical treatment, recovery

Full Story