Authorities in Northern California are piecing together the mystery of a missing 78-year-old man, who they suspect may have been drawn deeper into the wilderness after suffering a medical episode. This unsettling development was shared by the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office as their investigation into the disappearance of Gil Clark continues.

Gil Clark was officially reported missing on August 14, raising alarm among those who knew him. A friend had last seen him when dropping him off in Downieville, a small town located about four miles away from his residence in Goodyears Bar.

In their search efforts, the Sierra County Sheriff’s Department, supported by teams from Nevada County, conducted a thorough search along Highway 49. This stretch of road, spanning between Downieville and Goodyears Bar, is a route Clark was known to frequent on his walks, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.

Search and rescue teams also meticulously combed through the dense wooded area behind Clark’s home, hoping to uncover any clues that might lead to his whereabouts.

The wooded terrain behind the victim’s home was also scoured by search and rescue teams.  

“During these efforts, searchers noted significant bear activity and neighbors reported recent mountain lion activity in the vicinity,” officials said.  

In the ensuing weeks, investigators continued to follow up on leads or tips about Clark’s possible whereabouts. On Nov. 14, an additional search was conducted that expanded the area searchers had been focused on, KTLA’s sister station KRON reported. 

“During that search, clothing and personal items belonging to Mr. Clark were located,” officials said.  

The following day, teams from Sierra and Nevada counties returned to the area with four cadaver dogs and conducted an exhaustive search of the area, though there was no additional trace of the 78-year-old.  

“Based on the investigation and personal items recovered, it is believed Mr. Clark likely suffered a medical emergency near his home that incapacitated him or resulted in his death,” officials said. “Evidence further indicates he was likely dragged from the area by a bear or mountain lion.” 

Sheriff’s investigators in Sierra County said the case remains open and that the department will continue to follow up on new leads or tips.