Three Hikers Found Dead on Mount Baldy Including Santa Clara University Freshman
Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, 19, a freshman at Santa Clara University and a Los Alamitos High graduate, was identified as one of three hikers found dead on Mount Baldy. He reportedly died on the Devil's Backbone trail after falling about 500 feet. Casanova, described by his family as an avid sailor and outdoorsman, was hiking when his companion managed to reach cellular service and provided GPS coordinates to rescuers. Rescue efforts were hampered by severe winds that blocked airlift attempts. An air medic later confirmed Casanova's death. The identities of the two other hikers found dead alongside Casanova have not been released, and the cause of Casanova's death remains under investigation by the county coroner. Mount Baldy, which rises over 10,000 feet near Los Angeles, is a popular but treacherous hiking destination, especially during winter. In response to the fatalities, the US Forest Service closed seven trails on Mount Baldy, including the Devil's Backbone, starting Thursday and continuing until the following Wednesday to enhance public safety.
