Canadian Skier Missing at Whiteface Mountain, NY Turns Up Safe & Well almost 3000 Miles Away in California

We wrote last week about a Canadian skier missing at Whiteface Mountain, NY and the police efforts and public appeal for his whereabouts. In a bizarre new twist, he has turned up, safe and well, almost 3000 miles away, reports NBC.

New York State Police said Constantinos “Danny” Filippidis, 49, of Toronto, was found 2,900 miles away Tuesday in Sacramento.

The original appeal for information. Credit: New York State Police

Since then, hundreds of volunteers have spent about 7,000 hours combing the steep and icy mountain. Crews used K-9s and helicopters as part of the search. Police said they had no reason to believe Filippidis was not on the mountain.

Filippidis made contact with law enforcement officers in Sacramento and was reported to be in good health.

According to Toronto Professional Firefighters Local 3888, President Frank Ramagano, Filippidis was found confused and unable to answer questions as to how he got to California. He added that he was found alone and was receiving medical care after calling his wife and then 911.

Ramagano said Filippidis did not have a history of mental illness or substance abuse and was found wearing the same ski gear, including the helmet and goggles, he was last seen in when he was reported missing.

Officials have not said why he went missing and the circumstances of Filippidis’ disappearance remain under investigation.

A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday where more information about the case is expected to be released.