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The circumstances around Staples’ death are being investigated.

All Search and Rescue crews were immediately recalled in the aftermath of Staples’ death while the search for Mokkapati was suspended and operations were being “re-evaluated.”

On Thursday, several areas of Mount Baldy were placed under an emergency closure during the search for Mokkapati due to dangerous conditions and would remain in effect through Dec. 31 or until the search for the 52-year-old hiker ended, according to officials with the Angeles National Forest.

\"PHOTO:
AP
PHOTO: This undated photo released by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office shows Sree Mokkapati, as they search for him after he went missing hiking on snow-covered Mount Baldy on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019. (San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office via AP)
>

Mokkapati's son, Shravan, told KABC that his father is an experienced hiker and that this was not the first time he had traversed Mount Baldy but Mokkapati was only equipped for a day-long hike, not five or more days.

“Our Search and Rescue volunteers, as well as those throughout the entire state, give up themselves and their time, selflessly, to try to rescue folks who become lost,” said McMahon. “Today is an example of what they're willing to give to try to help save some of the citizens that unfortunately get lost or get hurt in some of the most dangerous parts of our state.\"

Mokkapati was allegedly last seen wearing a gray puffy jacket and gray pants and anyone with information regarding the search is urged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Fontana station.

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