Air, ground search continues for hiker missing near Nome

ANCHORAGE — Emergency responders in Nome are intensifying the search for a missing hiker.

Alaska State Troopers were notified Monday after 36-year-old Joseph Balderas failed to show up for work as a law clerk in the Nome court.

Balderas’ vehicle was found along the Nome-Council Highway. He may have been running or hiking in the area.

Aircraft from the Coast Guard and National Park Service joined chartered aircraft in the search Tuesday.

Nearly two dozen volunteers used all-terrain vehicles as part of a ground search.

They concentrated on heavy brush areas near the vehicle.

Fairbanks searchers with dogs are expected Wednesday.

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