Search continues for man reported missing in Niland

NILAND, Calif. (KYMA) - The search continues for a man who was reported missing over a week ago in Niland.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office (ICSO) said 56-year-old Jeffrey Hartmayer was part of a group who became stranded in a remote area.

One person from the group was airlifted to the hospital due to a medical concern while two other people returned home. However, Hartmayer was nowhere to be seen.

A multi-agency search team was activated, but his friends, like Jessi Delgadillo, fear the worst.

"Unfortunately, it's been too long. It's been over a week. This desert heat is no joke. And I think there's been malintent," Delgadillo expressed.

ICSO is continuing to search the area and are asking anyone with information to come forward.