Oroville, California – The search for 22-year-old Julio Gutierrez, who has been missing since August 18, continues into its third day. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office, along with dedicated volunteers, are conducting extensive search operations in the Feather River and the Afterbay Release Station, where evidence suggests Gutierrez’s vehicle was involved in a traffic collision before being submerged in water.
Julio Gutierrez was last seen after attending an event in Biggs. When he did not return home, his concerned family reported him missing in the early hours of August 18. Deputies quickly initiated an investigation, which led them to Larkin Road near the Afterbay Release Station. There, they discovered signs of a traffic collision and, with the assistance of California Highway Patrol (CHP), located Gutierrez’s submerged vehicle. However, Gutierrez himself was not inside the vehicle.
The search, which includes the Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Aviation Unit, and Search and Rescue teams, is focused on the Feather River area, extending from the Afterbay Release Station to Gridley. Search operations have intensified with the involvement of boats, personal watercrafts, and helicopters, especially due to the high-water flow conditions.
As the search continues, the Oroville community has rallied in support, with many taking to social media to express their prayers and hopes for Gutierrez’s safe return. Comments from residents like Jose Magana, who wrote, "Keep praying for Julio Gutierrez to be safe and to be found safe," reflect the deep concern and solidarity felt throughout the community.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Julio Gutierrez’s whereabouts to contact the Butte County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 538-7322. The search will persist until Gutierrez is found, as both his family and the community hold on to hope during this difficult time.