Report: Firefighter Who Died On Backpacking Trip Had Alcohol, Drug In His System

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The Arcadia firefighter who fell from a cliff while searching for his dog on a camping trip had alcohol and ecstasy in his system, according to toxicology reports released on Friday by the Ventura County Coroner's Office.

» Complete Coverage: Michael Herdman

On June 13, Mike Herdman had ventured up into the rugged terrain of Sespe Wilderness with fellow firefighter Taylor Byars.

While huddled around a campsite, Herdman's dog, Duke, went missing. Herdman ran off barefoot to chase after Duke, wearing only board shorts and a T-shirt, but never came back.

(credit: Herdman Family)

Byars searched for his friend for nearly two days before he made his way out of the wilderness and reported his friend missing.

The 36-year-old's disappearance set off a two-week search in the Los Padres National Forest.

His body was found on June 27 about 1,200 feet above his campsite after he had apparently fallen from a cliff.

Herdman's death was ruled accidental, caused by blunt-force injury.