19-year-old hiker found dead on Mount Baldy identified as Seal Beach resident

"an incredibly sweet and empathetic young man."

"We are destroyed by the loss of our beloved Marcus. He was a graduate of Los Alamitos High, a freshman at Santa Clara University's business school, and an avid sailor and outdoorsman... It is difficult to explain the pain and anguish we are going through and ask for privacy as we try to find our way,"

"The tragic loss of life on Mt. Baldy and repeated rescue responses highlight how dangerous current conditions are, even for experienced hikers,"

"Weather and terrain conditions remain extremely dangerous and unpredictable, posing a significant risk to both the public and Search and Rescue personnel. The temporary closure of Mt. Baldy trails is necessary to prevent additional emergencies and protect lives. The pub"

Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, 19, was identified as one of three hikers found dead on Mount Baldy. Casanova's body was located Monday, with recovery delayed until Tuesday due to dangerous winds. The death followed a reported roughly 500-foot fall near Devil's Backbone, a trail near the mountain's highest peak. Family described him as an incredibly sweet and empathetic young man, noted his education and outdoor interests, and requested privacy while grieving. The U.S. Forest Service issued a temporary closure for part of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, including Mount Baldy trails, through Wednesday at 11:59 p.m., citing dangerous and unpredictable conditions that endanger the public and rescue personnel.

Read at ABC7 Los Angeles