The Boise County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a 67-year-old man whose vehicle was found down a steep embankment along South Fork Road near the Payette River, raising concern that he may have entered the water following a crash.
John Barmettler was last seen at a residence on South Fork Road and was believed to be heading home when he failed to arrive. Kayakers on the river spotted his vehicle before authorities were notified.
Difficult Terrain Complicated Search Efforts
Because of the rugged canyon terrain, crews were unable to retrieve the vehicle on the night it was discovered. No occupants were found at the scene. On June 2, deputies returned to recover the vehicle and canvass the surrounding area for any sign of Barmettler. Officials noted that he may have medical conditions that would have made climbing out of the canyon on his own extremely difficult.
Barmettler has not been recorded as a patient at any hospitals in the surrounding area. Deputies said they remain concerned he may have entered the river after the crash, though the Sheriff’s Office stated it is “hopeful” that someone may have helped him.
How to Help
Anyone with information on Barmettler’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Boise County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at (208) 392-4411. Even small details — a sighting along South Fork Road, a stopped vehicle, or contact with an unfamiliar person in the area — could prove critical to locating him.