Three Hikers Tragically Died After Jumping Into a Waterfall at a Popular Tourist Spot

What led to the Rattlesnake Falls tragedy on June 18, 2025?

In the scenic wilderness near Lake Tahoe, a day of adventure ended in heartbreak. Six friends set out to explore the rugged trails of Soda Springs, California, but only three returned.

What happened to the others? The answer lies in the powerful waters of Rattlesnake Falls, a beautiful yet dangerous spot that claimed three lives.

Rattlesnake Falls Tragedy: A Risky Leap into Danger

On June 18, 2025, a group of six hikers ventured into the remote Soda Springs area, about 30 miles from Lake Tahoe.

The trail to Rattlesnake Falls is steep and challenging, known for its isolation and rough terrain. During their hike, three men—Matthew Schoenecker, 50, and Valentino Creus, 59, both from Santa Cruz, California, and Matthew Anthony from New York City—decided to cool off by jumping into the waterfall’s plunge pool.

They did not resurface. The remaining hikers, unable to help, used a satellite phone to call 911 around 3 p.m..

The Placer County Sheriff’s Office quickly responded, sending a dive team by helicopter. The other three hikers were airlifted to safety that evening due to the difficult terrain.

However, strong currents, poor visibility, and high winds made it impossible to find the missing men right away. Search efforts continued for days, with teams from CAL FIRE, Search and Rescue, and the California Highway Patrol joining in.

A Brave Recovery Effort

By Sunday, June 22, the bodies of the three men were finally recovered, thanks to the tireless work of volunteer diver Juan Heredia and his team.

Heredia described the waterfall as “brutal” and “freezing cold,” saying he made four dives, each nearly three minutes long, to bring the men’s bodies to the surface.

“I wasn’t leaving without bringing those three souls home to their families,” he wrote on Facebook.

The sheriff’s office expressed deep sadness, offering condolences to the families and friends of the victims.

The men’s deaths highlight the dangers of jumping into natural waterways. Placer County officials warn that cold water, even in summer, can cause shock or hypothermia, making it hard to swim or breathe. They urge hikers to stay on trails and avoid risky plunges into ponds, lakes, or waterfalls.

Lessons from the Loss

This tragedy serves as a reminder to respect nature’s power. Rattlesnake Falls may be a stunning destination, but its remote location and strong currents make it hazardous.

Hikers should always check water conditions, avoid jumping into unknown waters, and travel with safety gear like satellite phones.

The loss of three lives has left a community mourning and raised questions about how to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Placer County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the exact causes of the deaths, but the story of Rattlesnake Falls is already a cautionary tale.

As summer draws adventurers to California’s wild places, this tragedy urges everyone to stay safe and make smart choices in the great outdoors.

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