MOUNT BALDY, CALIFORNIA: Human remains were found by hikers in a mountainous area of Southern California, where Julian Sands, a British-born actor, had gone missing five months ago, according to authorities. The body was located in the wilderness near Mount Baldy on Saturday morning, June 24, and has been sent to the coroner's office for identification, which is expected to take place in the following week, as stated by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
Julian Sands, known for his passion for hiking and mountaineering, was reported missing on January 13 after embarking on a hike to the peak of Mount Baldy, which stands over 10,000 feet east of Los Angeles. The area experienced intense storms during the winter period, adding to the challenges of the search and rescue efforts. His family released a statement since Sands’ disappearance, "We continue to hold Julian in our hearts with bright memories of him as a wonderful father, husband, explorer, lover of the natural world and the arts, and as an original and collaborative performer."
Multiple search operations were conducted to find Julian Sands
Following Sands' disappearance, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has carried out a total of eight search operations in an attempt to locate him. The most recent search, conducted on June 17, involved over 80 volunteers, staff, and deputies, but unfortunately yielded no results. The mountain's treacherous terrain and challenging conditions make it a particularly hazardous location for hikers, and these statistics highlight the significant risks associated with venturing into the area.
Six hikers have died in Mt Baldy in the last 3 years
Mount Baldy, towering above Los Angeles, reaches an elevation of approximately 10,064 feet. Regarded as one of the most perilous mountains in the United States, it has gained notoriety for its high number of fatalities and injuries, as reported by The Los Angeles Times. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, there have been over 100 search operations conducted for missing hikers on Mount Baldy since 2020, resulting in six confirmed deaths.
Born in 1958 in Yorkshire, England, Julian Sands was raised by his mother Brenda, and four brothers after her divorce, and he later attended Lord Wandsworth College before pursuing acting. He began with minor roles, including alongside Anthony Hopkins in 'A Married Man' and in 'Privates on Parade'. Sands gained prominence with his role in the critically acclaimed film 'The Killing Fields' in 1984. However, it was his portrayal of George Emerson in the adaptation of EM Forster's 'A Room With A View' the following year that launched him to stardom, featuring a memorable on-screen kiss with Helena Bonham Carter in a poppy field.
