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Compean's \"location\" from his phone was off, so crews couldn't obtain the location code of the photo, the sheriff's office said. Instead, the authorities released the image to the public in hope that someone would recognize the area where Compean was stranded.

An avid hiker of the Angeles National Forest came forward sharing information about the area in the photo, the sheriff's office said.

A helicopter then found Compean and airlifted him to safety, authorities said.

\"His clue greatly helped us find the hiker,\" the Montrose Search and Rescue Team said.

We are so grateful for a happy ending to this search. A huge TY to @AltadenaMRT @SierraMadreSAR Antelope Valley SAR, @SCVSHERIFF SAR, and @SEBLASD Air-5. We further want to thank the online community and especially @ai6yrham. His clue greatly helped us find the hiker.#LASD pic.twitter.com/Ope322D0Z2

— Montrose Search & Rescue Team (Ca.) (@MontroseSAR) April 14, 2021

Compean wrote on Facebook Tuesday night, \"I want to thank God for getting me thru this safe and sound home. Also to thank all those who played a role in the search and locating me. Thank you all for your prayers and the collaboration with each other.\"

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