Tragic news out of California’s southern Sierra Nevada mountains where a 36-year-old hiker from Visalia was found dead below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, July 13th.
The National Park Service reports the hiker who has been identified as Drew Hall was reported missing on the night of July 12th. He became separated from his group earlier in the day on Saturday and planned on reconnecting with them later but failed to rendezvous during an expected time window and family members reported him missing to park authorities that evening.
The search for Hall began early the following morning. His body was located at approximately 3:00pm by family and friends. The incident remains under investigation.
“This has been a challenging year for our search and rescue teams. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the hiker. We encourage everyone to take extra precautions and remain vigilant while enjoying the beauty of these National Parks. Safety must always come first.” -Chief Ranger David Fox
Sequoia and Kings Canyon emergency personnel have conducted 60 search and rescues this year with five occurring over this past weekend. This is the fifth fatality to occur within the parks this year.