Joshua Tree National Park, CA– On October 4, 2012, about 5:26 p.m., deputies from the Thermal Station responded to the Joshua Tree National Park regarding a hiking accident. The hiker, an adult male, identified as Mojica Antonio Coronel, 42 of Culver City, was accompanied by two others hikers. While hiking atop a rock formation, the hikers decided to take a break. A witness observed the hiker fall over from a seated position between two rocks. The fire department and the Joshua Tree National Park Search and Rescue responded and located the hiker. The hiker was recovered and pronounced deceased.

The Riverside County Coroner’s office responded to the scene and assumed control of the scene.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind hiking enthusiasts to carry proper equipment for any outdoor excursions. Proper preparedness includes a well-thought-out travel plan shared with friends and family, as well as familiarity with common hiking equipment, such as GPS, maps and compasses, proper clothing and plenty of water.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Butvidas at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Thermal Station at (760) 863-8990.