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Published on January 15, 2025
Authorities Continue Manhunt for Armed Suspect Octavio Hernandez in Calaveras CountySource: Facebook/Calaveras County Sheriff's Office

The manhunt for an armed suspect in the Jenny Lind area of Calaveras County has extended into a new day, as authorities continue to work around the clock in an attempt to apprehend the individual identified as 32-year-old Octavio Hernandez. According to a recent social media post by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office, Hernandez, who is wanted for the theft of a vehicle and firearm possession charges, was last seen in Calaveras River Canyon, South of Buena Vista Court.

During the night deputies utilized unmanned aerial vehicles with night vision in an effort to establish communication, to monitor his position, and to ensure that he was still in possession of a high-powered rifle, while facing the challenging terrain and limited visibility law enforcement focused on ongoing efforts to communicate with the suspect encouraging him to surrender peacefully. In an update yesterday, authorities had established a perimeter they believe contains Hernandez within a heavily wooded and steep area, utilizing mutual aid from neighboring agencies to bolster their continued operation.

The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office has urged residents, especially those in the vicinity of the incident, to remain alert and secure their homes, affirming their commitment to public safety by maintaining a presence in the area until Hernandez is in custody. Outside of these direct safety measures, the Sheriff’s Office was clear in its reminder of due process, stating, "It is important to remember that all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty."

Suspect Hernandez is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches in stature, weighing around 240 pounds, last seen wearing an orange jacket and camouflage pants, the search for Hernandez began yesterday after he allegedly led law enforcement on a chase from San Joaquin County to Calaveras before fleeing his vehicle on foot near Buena Vista Court, further reports from the updated alerts encouraged local residents to immediately report any suspicious activity. The situation in Jenny Lind is ongoing, and individuals in the area are encouraged to stay updated through official information from the Sheriff's Office.