Hiker dies of unknown causes in hills south of Menifee

This is the end of Scenic View Drive, south of Keller Road and adjacent to the freeway, where rescuers began the search. Menifee 24/7 photo: Doug Spoon

A man who was hiking in the hills west of Interstate 215 and south of Keller Road on the Menifee/Murrieta border died at the scene despite rescue attempts on Friday, authorities said.

The man, who was not identified, was described as Caucasian and 50 years old. Officers from the Riverside County Sheriffs Department responded about 10:30 a.m. to the report of an unattended death, said Deputy Mike Vasquez. The report stated that medics had attempted life-saving measures on a person who was "possibly exercising in the area."

The Riverside County Fire Department reported responding to a 9:30 a.m. call along with the Murrieta Fire Department. The nearest street location was the southern end of Scenic View Drive, south of Keller Road, where it stops at a trail head adjacent to the freeway.

Firefighters hiked approximately one mile into the hills to the victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Motorists on Interstate 215 reported seeing emergency vehicles parked at the foot of the hills and a helicopter flying overhead.

The cause of death is unknown, Vasquez said. An investigation is underway.