A routine search and rescue mission in California took a surprising turn when the San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team stumbled upon none other than Jay Leno while searching for a missing hiker.
The team had been on the lookout for 78-year-old Ki Soo Yang, a fit and experienced hiker who went missing on Mt. Waterman. As they combed the area, they unexpectedly ran into the famous comedian, who just happened to be in the area with a friend. Talk about an unexpected twist!
In a Facebook post on Monday, Aug. 19, the rescue team shared the news, saying, “We found our missing person—and ran into Jay Leno along the way!” They even posted a few photos from the mission, including one with Jay himself, smiling alongside the first responders.
Yang, who was reported missing on Saturday, Aug. 17, was finally located after a good Samaritan spotted a flyer and remembered seeing him between Mount Waterman and Twin Peaks.
The rescue team credited the hiker community’s vigilance and the quick thinking of the good Samaritan for helping them bring Yang back safely.
The rescue team expressed their gratitude, saying:
“This outcome is a powerful reminder of how important our hiking community members are in helping us achieve successful missions. Without your vigilance and willingness to assist, this save might not have been possible.”
It’s not every day that you find a lost hiker and a celebrity in one trip, but that’s exactly what happened on this remarkable rescue mission!