Key Takeaways
- Three hikers, including a 19-year-old, were found dead in the Mount Baldy area on Monday
- The hikers were found during a search and rescue operation for an injured 19-year-old hiker who fell about 500 feet near Devils Backbone
- The Mount Baldy trails have been closed due to severe weather conditions and the risk of accidents
- Two other hikers were rescued in a separate incident in the same area
- Authorities are warning people to prepare adequately before hiking and to avoid hiking during inclement weather conditions
Introduction to the Incident
The Mount Baldy area in California witnessed a tragic incident on Monday, where three hikers, including a 19-year-old, were found dead. The search and rescue operation was initiated when a 19-year-old hiker fell about 500 feet near Devils Backbone, and his friend, who was hiking with him, called for help. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded to the call, and a team was dispatched to search for the injured hiker. During the aerial search, the bodies of two other hikers were found nearby, who were not part of the initial group.
Search and Rescue Operation
The search and rescue operation was conducted in challenging weather conditions, with severe winds making it difficult for the helicopter to safely complete the rescue. The Los Angeles County aircraft was eventually used to help, and an air medic was hoisted down to confirm the deaths of the three hikers. The sheriff’s department stated that the winds were so strong that they prevented a hoist operation, making it a complex and risky rescue operation. The bodies of the three hikers were recovered on Tuesday, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Mount Baldy Trails Closure
Following the incident, the Mount Baldy trails have been closed due to the severe weather conditions and the risk of accidents. The U.S. Forest Service announced a temporary closure and prohibition order for a portion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, including Mount Baldy. The order will remain in effect until Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. The sheriff’s department is warning people to respect the closure and avoid the area until it is safe to reopen, with violators facing a fine of up to $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization.
Separate Incident and Rescues
In a separate incident, two men, an 18-year-old and a 31-year-old, were rescued in the same area after one of them fell about 100 feet and was injured. The men were able to call 911 for help and gave deputies their location, which enabled the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Air Rescue to locate them and perform a hoist rescue. The sheriff’s department stated that this incident was unrelated to the hikers found dead. In total, there have been six rescue operations since Sunday, with two people rescued on Sunday, two on Monday, and two on Tuesday, not including the three hikers found dead.
Safety Precautions and Warnings
The authorities are reminding people to prepare adequately before hiking and to avoid hiking during inclement weather conditions. They are also urging hikers to carry a GPS device and only hike on open and designated trails. The sheriff’s department is warning people of the dangers of hiking in severe weather conditions and the importance of being prepared and aware of the risks involved. The incident highlights the need for hikers to be cautious and respectful of the terrain and weather conditions, and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The incident on Mount Baldy is a tragic reminder of the risks and dangers involved in hiking and outdoor activities. The severe weather conditions and challenging terrain can make it difficult for even experienced hikers to navigate, and the importance of being prepared and aware of the risks cannot be overstated. The closure of the Mount Baldy trails is a necessary measure to prevent additional emergencies and protect lives, and the authorities are urging people to respect the closure and avoid the area until it is safe to reopen. As the investigation into the incident continues, it is essential for hikers to be cautious and respectful of the terrain and weather conditions, and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.