Search continues for missing Fort Irwin soldier from Hesperia, public's help requested

Fort Irwin National Training Center officials are seeking the public's help as they search for a missing soldier from Hesperia who failed to report for duty.

Army Pfc. Alejandro Espinola of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment was reported missing on Thursday, July 18, a Fort Irwin spokesperson reported.

The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System revealed the 26-year-old Espinola’s last known location as Hesperia. He is described as a Hispanic/Latino male, standing 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 164 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

Additionally, he drives a gray 2018 Hyundai Elantra hatchback with California plate 8BTS191.

The Fort Irwin’s Criminal Investigation Division, supported by the Department of Emergency Services and local law enforcement, are actively searching for Espinola, the spokesperson said.

“The health and safety of our Soldier is our number one concern,” said Col. Kevin T. Black, commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry. “The chain of command is actively communicating with Pfc. Espinola’s family to keep them informed of ongoing search efforts.”

The Fort Irwin National Training Center is nearly 50 miles northeast of Barstow in the Mojave Desert of San Bernardino County.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Pfc. Espinola should contact the Fort Irwin Criminal Investigation Division at 760-442-9316, or the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department at 760-956-5001.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Search continues for missing Fort Irwin soldier from Hesperia, public's help requested