Tragic update issued after beloved California firefighter went missing in 2020

The mystery surrounding the 2020 disappearance of U.S. Forest Service firefighter Carlos Baltazar has been tragically resolved.

A human skull, discovered by a hunter in Big Bear on October 26, 2024, has been positively identified as belonging to Baltazar. 

The San Bernardino County Coroners Office confirmed the identification on February 22, 2025, following DNA analysis.

Baltazar, 39, a member of the Big Bear Hotshots, went missing in September 2020 while battling the El Dorado Fire.

After the death of his squad boss, Baltazar was last seen speaking with coworkers at the barracks before vanishing.

His vehicle was later found crashed along Highway 18, but extensive searches yielded no results.

The cause of Baltazars death remains under investigation.

The discovery of his remains has brought closure to a painful chapter for his family. 

The mystery surrounding the 2020 disappearance of U.S. Forest Service firefighter Carlos Baltazar has been tragically resolved.

A human skull, discovered by a hunter in Big Bear on October 26, 2024, has been positively identified as belonging to Baltazar

His niece, Melinda Nadine, expressed the familys grief and gratitude, emphasizing Baltazars dedication as a Wildland Firefighter and his commitment to his family and faith. 

Carlos was a hero to many, she wrote on a GoFundMe page established to support his family. 

Now, we need the communitys help to give him the dignified funeral he deserves. 

Nadine highlighted the emotional burden on Baltazars 77-year-old mother, Maria, who is raising his 14-year-old son. 

He did so much for the community... always positive, always putting God and his family first, Nadine stated. 

My uncle was a fantastic friend and colleague who was like a brother to all, constantly pushing others to always be the best.

The family extends their deepest thanks to the community for their unwavering support and remembrance of Carlos over the years. 

We appreciate everyone who has never forgotten about Carlos through the years and has never stopped asking about him, Nadine wrote. 

Baltazar, 39, a member of the Big Bear Hotshots, went missing in September 2020 while battling the El Dorado Fire

After the death of his squad boss, Baltazar was last seen speaking with coworkers at the barracks before vanishing

Now, we need everybodys help to unite and help bring him home to us by supporting his family.

Those wishing to contribute to funeral expenses and support Baltazars family can do so at the following GoFundMe page: GoFundMe: Bring Carlos Baltazar Home. 

While the discovery marks the end of the search, the family remains dedicated to honoring his memory and his service.