Search and rescue teams recently found the bodies of a man and a woman near Angel Falls, close to Yosemite National Park in central California. The Madera County Sheriff’s Department provided confirmation to Fox News Digital. The individuals were identified as Monica Ledesma, 34, and James Hall, 35, who were in a relationship, according to the sheriff’s department.
Initially, Ledesma’s body was discovered on Wednesday after a report of an unresponsive woman in the water near Bass Lake. Hall’s belongings were found near Ledesma, and his body was soon located as well. A fundraising page set up for Hall’s family described him as a hero who tried to save his girlfriend. Unfortunately, both of them lost their lives in this tragic incident.
During a vigil held for the couple, Hall’s mother expressed that it was an extremely difficult day for their family. Nancy O’Hara, a friend of the couple, commended their kindness and care for others. Ledesma was a mother to two children, an 8-year-old son, and a 14-year-old daughter, as mentioned by her mother in an interview.
Sheriff Tyson Pogue of Madera County extended condolences to the families of the deceased individuals and appreciated the efforts of the rescue and recovery teams. O’Hara emphasized the significance of Ledesma and Hall within their community, highlighting their kindness and positive impact on those around them.
The sheriff’s department issued a warning regarding the dangers of areas like Angel Falls, which may give hikers a false sense of security due to their proximity to parking lots and trails. Extra caution is advised when hiking near water, as rocks can be slippery and one misstep can have serious consequences. The swift and cold water in the area can quickly lead to hypothermia and loss of limb movement.
It is crucial to take necessary precautions when entering rivers and streams, such as wearing a life vest and following any closures in place. The exact causes of death for Ledesma and Hall were not disclosed by the department, emphasizing the importance of safety measures while engaging in outdoor activities near water bodies.