Search efforts continue for missing hiker in Tooele County

TOOELE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — Search efforts have continued for a missing hiker in Tooele County, according to an update from the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office.

Chad Burningham made camp near the Jacob City Trailhead in Stockton, and he has not been seen since he left his campground at around 8 a.m. on Monday, July 14. He was reported missing later that day, and the search has been ongoing since then.

The Tooele County Sheriff’s Office provided an update on the search in a post on social media and asked anyone in the area to report anything they believe may be of significance. They stated that “extensive efforts” have been carried out over the past few days by the search and rescue team, patrol deputies, and other specialized support units.

“We have extensively searched the areas where we believe Chad may have been, and our detectives are working on other potential leads,” the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office said.

If you do find something that you believe may be related to Burningham, the Sheriff’s Office has instructed you not to touch the item and to immediately contact the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at 435-882-5600.

Because they are utilizing tracking dogs, it is crucial to preserve evidence so that dogs and trained teams can be directed effectively, the Sheriff’s Office said.

In addition to multiple tracking dogs, search operations are using drones, a helicopter from the Department of Public Safety, and an airplane from the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. Burningham still has not been located.

“We sincerely thank the public for their continued support, awareness, and cooperation as we remain committed to bringing Chad home,” the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office said.