Body found in Angeles National Forest is believed to be that of missing hiker

A body believed to be that of a hiker missing since he tried to cross the East Fork of the San Gabriel River was found Sunday as scores of friends and relatives helped law enforcement officials in the search, authorities said.

Joe Le, 20, was crossing the river with a friend at a rope crossing Friday afternoon when the rushing water knocked him off his feet and carried him downstream, authorities said.

Sheriff’s Deputy Benjamin Grubb said that the body of a male, Asian adult was discovered about 3:30 p.m. near the Coyote Flats area of the Angeles National Forest, a popular destination for hikers and prospectors.

Grubb said that the body is believed to be Le’s but that the coroner’s office has yet to make an official identification.

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--Jack Leonard