UPDATE: A tragic accident on Mt. Baldy has claimed the life of 19-year-old Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, a freshman at Santa Clara University, who fell approximately 500 feet while hiking on January 1, 2026. This devastating incident underscores the dangers of winter hiking in California’s mountainous terrains.
Authorities report that Casanova was hiking near Devil’s Backbone on Monday with a friend when the accident occurred. His friend quickly called for help, providing GPS coordinates to emergency responders. Unfortunately, rescue efforts were hampered by severe weather conditions, which delayed recovery operations.
On Tuesday, as rescue teams searched the area, they discovered the bodies of two additional men, who have not yet been identified. It remains unclear when they fell, adding to the urgency of the ongoing investigations into this incident.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that windy conditions prevented helicopters from reaching the scene on the day of the fall, complicating recovery efforts. The bodies were ultimately retrieved on January 2.
“We are destroyed by the loss of our beloved Marcus. He was a graduate of Los Alamitos High, an avid outdoorsman, and a sweet and empathetic young man,”
stated Casanova’s family in a heartfelt message. His mother, Fabiana Muench Casanova, expressed profound grief, saying, “He was the light in our lives. He was the most sweetest boy.”
Casanova was home for the holidays and had planned the hike with his best friend. His mother described him as a passionate sailor, surfer, and hiker, emphasizing his love for the outdoors. “He had a GPS on him. After he fell, his friend ran down the mountain to get help,” she added.
Mt. Baldy has gained notoriety for its treacherous conditions, especially during winter when inexperienced hikers often underestimate the risks. The steep terrain, combined with icy and snowy conditions, has led to numerous accidents in the past. Local authorities have issued safety warnings and closed the Mt. Baldy area and nearby trails through January 7 due to hazardous conditions.
Officials are urging the public to respect these closures for their own safety and the safety of rescue teams. The dangers of hiking in winter are exacerbated by a mix of novice and skilled hikers attempting to navigate the mountain’s challenging landscape.
As the community mourns the loss of Marcus, attention will remain on Mt. Baldy as rescuers continue to assess the situation and provide updates. The heartfelt tributes from friends and family highlight the deep impact of this tragedy, making it clear that Marcus will be sorely missed.
For those considering outdoor activities in winter conditions, authorities emphasize the importance of preparation and caution. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as investigations continue.
