SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY – On Dec. 29, 2025, at about 11:30 a.m., San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue and Fontana Station deputies responded to a request to locate an injured 19-year-old hiker near Devil’s Backbone on Mount Baldy.

The Devil’s Backbone Trail is a rugged hiking route known for its steep ridges and rocky terrain.

The hiker reportedly fell about 500 feet. His hiking companion reached an area with cell service and provided GPS coordinates to aid rescuers.

Search and Rescue ground crews began their ascent as Sheriff’s Air Rescue launched an aerial search.

During the aerial search, deputies located the injured hiker and two unidentified individuals nearby. Severe winds prevented the helicopter from safely completing the rescue.

At about 7:30 p.m., a Los Angeles County airship assisted in the effort.

High winds again prevented a hoist operation, but an air medic was lowered and confirmed all three individuals were deceased. 

Recovery operations are underway for all subjects.

More information will be released as it becomes available. No further details are available at this time.

Trail has a history of serious incidents 

Devil’s Backbone Trail has a history of serious incidents, including multiple rescues and fatal falls.

During October 2025, three hikers were rescued after becoming stranded on Devil’s Backbone amid dangerous weather. None were seriously injured.

A 23‑year‑old hiker died in 2016 after slipping about 1,500 feet on the Devil’s Backbone while trying to help a friend.

Anyone with information should contact the Fontana Sheriff’s Station at (909) 356‑6767 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (909) 387‑8313. Anonymous tips can also be reported via the We-Tip Hotline at 1‑800‑78CRIME (27463) or online at www.wetip.com.

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