Actor Julian Sands, 65, left home almost two weeks ago to spend some time on California’s treacherous Mt. Baldy — and he was officially reported missing by his wife, Eugenia Citkowitz, on January 13.
After 10 days missing, Sands’ family released a statement on Monday, January 23, thanking local officials and search-and-rescue teams for their continued efforts, even in the face of additional winter weather and dangerous conditions on the mountain.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department shared the family’s statement along with their own update that read: “As we enter day 11 of the search for Julian Sands on Mt. Baldy, we are reminded of the sheer determination & selflessness of all of the people who have aided in this search. We will continue to utilize the resources available to us.”
As we enter day 11 of the search for Julian Sands on Mt. Baldy, we are reminded of the sheer determination & selflessness of all of the people who have aided in this search. We will continue to utilize the resources available to us. The family would like to share this statement: pic.twitter.com/owO2o97f16
— San Bernardino County Sheriff (@sbcountysheriff) January 23, 2023
Noting that Sands’ family had asked the sheriff’s office to share their thanks as well, they added the family’s statement.
“Our heartfelt thanks to the compassionate members of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department who are coordinating the search for our beloved Julian, not least the heroic search teams listed below who are braving difficult conditions on the ground and in the air to bring Julian home,” the statement read. “We are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support.”
The search for Sands has encountered a number of obstacles thus far, not the least of which being weather conditions in the area. The initial search, which began on the 13th when the “Room With a View” actor was first reported missing, had to be called off within hours due to snow and ice and poor visibility.
Sands’ son Henry, 37, flew to California to help authorities retrace his father’s steps — but despite being a seasoned hiker himself, he too had to turn back when the weather took a turn for the worse.
When conditions made foot traffic impossible, rescue teams attempted to continue the mission with the use of drones and helicopters — but a high wind warning on Monday grounded those efforts as well.
Friends are still holding out hope that the actor will be found alive, however.
Julian, please be ok! I hike with Julian in Los Angeles and he introduced me to #mtbaldy He is a powerful hiker & always prepared. If anyone can get through this he can. I know he knows that mountain backwards. #juliansands #pleasebeok
— Kevin J Ryan (@KevinRyanII) January 20, 2023
“Julian, please be ok! I hike with Julian in Los Angeles and he introduced me to #mtbaldy He is a powerful hiker & always prepared. If anyone can get through this he can. I know he knows that mountain backwards. #juliansands #pleasebeok,” Kevin Ryan tweeted.