Tayler Esslinger, Firefighter From Gypsum, Goes Missing In Mountains

GYPSUM, Colo. (CBS4) - Volunteers are joining first responders searching for a fellow firefighter who hasn't been seen or heard from since Monday. Tayler Esslinger, 26, of Gypsum vanished Monday when he reportedly headed into the mountains on an outing.

Esslinger's cellphone is not sending out information for law enforcement to ping it, according to search crews. Crews aren't sure where to search, so they are working grid patterns around the county.

Officials are organizing a volunteer search party to help look for him and his truck, a black 4-door Dodge.

Tayler's twin brother Tyler has joined the search and is using an ATV to cover ground area.

"I really appreciate the community coming together to support us. It shows a lot of love that they have for my brother. My brother and I grew up here," said Tyler. "I just want to find him."

In addition to being a firefighter for the Gypsum Fire Protection District, Esslinger is also a a detention deputy for the Eagle County Sheriff's office.

Additional Resources

Authorities in Vail released the following information about the search for Tayler Esslinger.

If you have any information regarding Tayler or if you see this vehicle please contact the Eagle County Sheriff's Office or the Vail Public Safety Communications Center at 970-479-2201.