Three men tragically drowned at Rattlesnake Falls, a secluded hiking area near Soda Springs in Placer County, California, on June 18, 2025. The deceased have been identified as Valentino Creus, 50, and Matthew Schoenecker, both from Los Angeles, and Matthew Anthony, 44, from New York City.
The incident began when a group of six hikers notified law enforcement that three individuals had jumped into the water and subsequently vanished. Emergency responders from Cal Fire, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office dive team, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter quickly mobilized to the scene, which was described as “extremely remote and difficult to access” by the sheriff’s office.
Recovery efforts faced significant challenges due to strong water currents and high winds, which sometimes made it unsafe for aerial operations. Despite these obstacles, authorities continued their efforts over several days.
On Sunday, it was confirmed that the bodies of the three men had been located. In a heartfelt statement, the sheriff’s office extended condolences to the families and friends of those lost, emphasizing the impact of this tragic event on the community.
While the specific details surrounding their deaths remain undisclosed, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with water activities, particularly in remote and unpredictable locations. It highlights the importance of safety precautions when venturing into nature.
This unfortunate scenario also reinforces the need for increased awareness and preparedness when engaging in outdoor activities, especially in areas known for their swift water conditions. The community mourns this loss while hoping it inspires others to prioritize safety in the great outdoors.