California college wrestling star Ryan George dies after 400-foot fall hiking in Yosemite

A 19-year-old California college wrestling star died Sunday after falling nearly 400 feet while hiking in Yosemite National Park, authorities and school officials confirmed.

Ryan George, a sophomore at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC), was hiking with friends near Illilouette Falls on Sept. 20 when he slipped off the trail.

National Park Service law enforcement rangers located his remains in the canyon below Glacier Point Trail. Park officials maintain a standard policy of not commenting on active fatality investigations.

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George was a standout wrestler for SRJC’s Bear Cubs in the 197-pound weight division.

During a breakout freshman season, he compiled an impressive 23-4 record, finishing third overall at the 3C2A state championship tournament to earn All-American honors. The tragic fall occurred just two days after George competed at the Dave Pacheco Invitational in Sacramento, where he placed second individually and helped lead his team to a second-place overall finish.

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"If you knew Ryan, you know he was one of the most genuine, positive people you could ever meet," SRJC Head Coach Fred Duerr shared in a statement. "He had this way of lighting up a room, making you feel welcome, and bringing out the best in everyone around him."

Before enrolling at SRJC, George attended Montgomery High School in Santa Rosa, where he won the 2025 North Bay League title at 215 pounds and placed second at the North Coast Section championship. Off the mat, George was preparing to either transfer to a four-year university program or enter a fire academy to become a professional firefighter.

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Park search-and-rescue teams responded to roughly 250 incidents within Yosemite National Park in 2025, a significant jump from 191 the prior year. George is survived by his older sister, Jaida.

Teammates and community members have launched an online GoFundMe campaign to support with funeral and living expenses.

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