Ryan George was a 19-year-old standout collegiate wrestler for Santa Rosa Junior College who had a lot more life to live.
Unfortunately, he would tragically die on September 20, 2026, following a hiking accident in Yosemite National Park.
Hiking in Yosemite National Park carries serious risks, making it one of the deadliest national parks in the United States. It has 25 hiking-related fatalities recorded between 2014 and 2019 and about 250 emergency search-and-rescue operations each year.
Falls are the leading cause of death in the park. Many scenic trails feature steep, sheer drop-offs with no guardrails.
19-year-old California college wrestler Ryan George tragically fell to his death while hiking in Yosemite National Park. The fatal accident occurred on Sunday, September 20, 2026, near the scenic Illilouette Falls area.
Consequently, the devastating news deeply shocked his family, teammates, and the entire Santa Rosa Junior College athletic community.
The standout student-athlete was enjoying an outdoor weekend trip alongside a close group of childhood friends. Park rangers reported that Ryan George accidentally slipped near the treacherous edge before plunging down the steep roc...