SDF-Trained Search Teams Deploy to Orange County Mudslide

On January 5, 2026, SDF-trained teams Michael Bruce & Cooper and Sean Monville & Nanci of Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), along with OCFA teammates Jill Haynes & Rubble, responded to a mudslide that occurred earlier that morning in Orange County, California. The mudslide, caused by California’s recent heavy rainfall, temporarily closed Metrolink train tracks between the San Clemente Pier and Oceanside.

OCFA responded to the scene along the San Clemente Beach Trail, south of the pier. After a thorough evaluation of the area, officials determined that the mudslide did not damage nearby homes or pose a threat to residences located on the cliff above the trail.

Although there were no reports of anyone trapped, OCFA deployed three canine teams as a precautionary measure to ensure no victims were involved. The deployed canine units thoroughly searched the slide area and confirmed that no individuals were trapped in the debris. Once the area was cleared and deemed safe, train service was restored and the tracks were reopened.

We send our thanks to the teams who responded to this incident who helped to ensure no one was trapped or injured as a result of the mudslide, enabling normal operations to resume swiftly and without incident.

MEET THE BOOTS AND PAWS ON THE GROUND IN ORANGE COUNTY: