A family from Los Angeles is desperately seeking assistance from Ecuadorian and American authorities to locate their beloved brother, father, husband, and son, José Tomás Lainez, who vanished while hiking in El Salvador last month.
54-year old José Tomás Lainez embarked on his trip to El Salvador on March 23, intending to explore the San Vicente area alongside his nephew, mother, cousin, a guide, and the guide’s wife, according to his sister, Maria Roberts.
The group ventured into San Vicente, where their mother had grown up, with plans to visit a river in the vicinity. During the hike, Lainez separated from the group and has not been seen since.
This Sunday will mark one month since Lainez disappeared without a trace.
Roberts informed authorities that family members have been actively engaged with both the FBI and the National Civil Police of El Salvador. They have also made contact with the U.S. Embassy in their quest for answers.
Efforts to obtain comments from the National Civil Police were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State acknowledged awareness of reports concerning a missing U.S. citizen in El Salvador. The department emphasized their commitment to collaborating closely with local authorities and the family during the search efforts.
“The Department of State has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad,” the spokesperson stated. “We stand ready to provide appropriate assistance to U.S. citizens in need and to their families.”
The family remains hopeful and determined to reunite with José Tomás Lainez, urging for any information or support that could lead to his whereabouts.