The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 15 that a missing person was located safely following a coordinated search effort south of Christoval. Timothy Rankin, 24, was reported missing after leaving the monastery while experiencing personal difficulties that raised concern for his well-being.
Authorities said the search began at approximately 9:19 AM on March 14 in the area of Allen Road and Chula Vista Lane. Due to the rugged terrain and circumstances surrounding Rankin’s disappearance, multiple agencies joined the operation. The search lasted about thirty-two hours before Rankin was found at around 4:09 PM in a remote part of the county.
The Texas Department of Public Safety, DPS Aircraft Operations, Texas Parks and Wildlife, San Angelo Police Department, San Angelo Fire Department, and Christoval Volunteer Fire Department assisted with ground personnel, ATVs, four-wheelers, drones, and aircraft. Texas Search and Rescue had also been mobilized but stood down when Rankin was located.
Sheriff Nick Hanna said, “This was a great example of how quickly agencies in our region come together when someone may be in danger. Deputies and responders covered a large and rugged area using every tool available, both on the ground and in the air. Thanks to the teamwork and persistence of everyone involved, we were able to locate him safely and bring this search to a successful conclusion.”
Rankin is now receiving appropriate care. The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to all agencies and responders who participated in the operation.
