Search Underway for Missing Backpacker in Yosemite National Park

Date: August 1, 2007

A large-scale search is underway in Yosemite National Park for Ottorrina “Terrina” Bonaventura, 80, from Schererville, Indiana. Bonaventura was last seen on July 30, 2007, near Vogelsang High Sierra Camp in Yosemite National Park. Over 100 people, including foot patrol, air patrol, and dog teams have joined the search effort.

Bonaventura is described as 5’0” tall, with dyed blond hair and brown eyes. She is an experienced hiker but has a history of memory loss which can lead to confusion. Anyone hiking in the backcountry areas around Tuolumne Meadows or east of Merced Lake (especially those near the Vogelsang or Merced High Sierra Camps or Emeric Lake) or any media inquiries about the search effort should call 209/372-0778.

Other park media inquiries can call 209/372-0248.