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3d ago

Hiker Dies After Medical Emergency on Stebbins Cold Canyon Trail

Rescuers reached the remote, steep trail by satellite 911 call which highlights how high heat, exposed terrain and limited cell service raise risks for hikers and first responders.

Hikers walk along the Cold Canyon Blue Ridge Loop Trail in the Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve, Calif.
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An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Aerial view of Lake Berryessa and surrounding oak woodlands showing damage from the 2015 Wragg fire, Image 2 shows Headshot of a man in a suit smiling

Overview

  • Rescuers with the Vacaville Fire Protection District responded after a satellite-based 911 call and a 60-year-old hiker was pronounced dead following transport to the Canyon Creek Resort area, according to agency statements.
  • Other hikers in the area began lifesaving efforts and helped make the satellite call that alerted emergency crews, the fire district said.
  • Reporting identifies the victim as 60-year-old Brent Leuschen of Davis and places the incident on Sunday, though officials have not released a cause of death.
  • The National Weather Service and local agencies warned that temperatures reached the upper 80s to 90s that day and urged hikers to avoid steep, exposed trails when hot, carry extra water and use emergency communication devices.
  • Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve, run by UC Davis for research and teaching, is known for steep loops, rocky ridgetops and limited shade which can make rescues difficult and increases the danger of heat-related illness.