A horrible tragedy struck Rattlesnake Falls in northern California as three hikers, enticed by its beauty, met a fatal fate in its deceptively dangerous waters.
See the tweet below!
A grim reminder of nature’s unpredictability, this catastrophe shocks us patriots who value safety over naive dangers.
Matthew Anthony, Valentino Creus, and Matthew Schoenecker were among a group of six adventurers exploring the perilous beauty of Soda Springs, situated near Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada.
The notorious trails of the location, deemed “remote” and “difficult” by the California Highway Patrol, have often attracted thrill-seekers.
The hike turned catastrophic when the three men jumped into the chilly depths of Rattlesnake Falls and failed to reemerge.
Their friends immediately called 911 when the realization dawned on them, leading to a massive search and rescue operation that spanned four days with support from the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, CAL Fire, and the California Highway Patrol.
Weather conditions and strong currents hampered rescue efforts, but not before Juan Heredia, a brave local diver, played an essential role in locating the bodies.
“We couldn’t wait. I knew it could take weeks to surface,” said diver Juan Heredia, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Ultimately, the bodies of the three men were found on June 22.
Such an untimely demise reflects the dire need to respect nature’s power and prioritize safe, informed choices over reckless acts of adventure.
The victims volunteered for the International Circle of Genetic Studies, mentoring students and advancing genetic research.
Their loss is profoundly felt within the scientific community and by all who respected their devotion.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” said the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.
The three hikers did not resurface after jumping into Rattlesnake Falls northwest of Lake Tahoe and had to be recovered by divers. https://t.co/ykjrJnP12Z
— RGJ.com (@rgj) June 25, 2025
