Three hikers tragically lost their lives after jumping into Rattlesnake Falls in Soda Springs, California. Rescue efforts were challenging due to rough terrain and strong currents. Authorities urge hikers to take extra caution in remote areas.
Three Young Hikers Die After Jumping Into Dangerous Waterfall in California
A tragic accident in Soda Springs, California, has claimed the lives of three hikers who jumped into Rattlesnake Falls on June 18 and never came back up. The victims were identified as Matthew Schoenecker and Valentino Creus from Los Angeles, and Matthew Anthony from New York City.
They were part of a larger group hiking in the wild and rocky terrain of Soda Springs. When the three men entered the waterfall, they were quickly swept away by the strong currents and did not resurface.
The rest of their group, trapped in hard-to-reach areas, had to be rescued by helicopter. The search and rescue mission was very difficult because of bad weather and dangerous terrain. Teams involved included the Placer County Sheriff’s Dive Team, CAL FIRE’s Rescue Team, and the California Highway Patrol helicopter unit.
The search was paused due to storms but picked up again over the next few days. By June 22, all three bodies had been found and recovered. Volunteer diver Juan Heredia described the mission as one of the toughest he had ever worked on. He said the currents were strong and dangerous, making the recovery extremely difficult. Without the dive team, he said, the bodies might have stayed underwater for weeks.
This heartbreaking event has deeply impacted the victims’ families, the rescue workers, and the local community. It also serves as a reminder of how dangerous remote nature spots can be—especially near waterfalls where conditions can change quickly.
Local authorities are urging all hikers to stay safe:
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Check weather reports
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Avoid risky areas during bad conditions
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Always hike with caution in wilderness zones
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families of Matthew Schoenecker, Matthew Anthony, and Valentino Creus. Their loss is mourned by friends, family, and many who followed this story. May they rest in peace.
