His name was Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, and he was only 19—freshman at Santa Clara University. Sadly, he has since been confirmed as one of three hikers who recently died on California’s snow-covered Mount Baldy. He lives in Seal Beach, California. He was lost after tumbling about 500 feet down the steep mountain hiking path known as the Devil’s Backbone.
As for the former, Casanova scored high marks as a star student at Santa Clara University’s highly acclaimed business school. The campus is located in the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area. His relatives remembered him as “an avid sailor and outdoorsman” perfectly summing up his love for the great outdoors. He was a graduate of Los Alamitos High School where his enthusiasm and dedication were evident.
The San Bernardino County sheriff’s office announced the discovery of Casanova’s body, which was found alongside the remains of two other unidentified hikers. The conditions of their death are still unknown and the county coroner has not released an official cause of death.
Mount Baldy, which soars above 10,000 feet and is located just east of Los Angeles. Sadly, we’ve heard of its beauty through stories of death – including the recent passing of actor Julian Sands three years before. In light of this recent tragedy, questions have been brought to light again about the very real risks of undertaking a hike in rugged landscapes.
Casanova’s family shared their heartbreak while mourning his loss. They released a statement celebrating his accomplishments and adventurous spirit, and asking for privacy as they grieve.
“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,” – Casanova’s family (via KABC)
As these investigations go on, the community heals and peoples hearts broken over the loss of such a young and potential filled life. There are still more questions than answers. Friends and family remember Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova as a creative and free spirit who left an indelible mark on the people who loved him.