After the tragic death of his son, Marcus Muensch Casanova, on Mount Baldy, Kenneth Muensch Casanova is calling for stricter safety measures, including hiking permits, for the mountain.
Marcus, a 19-year-old outdoor enthusiast from Seal Beach, was one of three hikers who died on the mountain two weeks ago.
Marcus was hiking the Devil’s Backbone Trail with a friend when he slipped and fell 500 feet. His father described the moment he learned of the accident, saying, “The worst possible news you could get.” Despite being an experienced hiker, Marcus was not prepared for the icy conditions, lacking essential winter gear like an ice ax and crampons.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has received 15 search-and-rescue calls on Mount Baldy since Marcus’s death, highlighting the mountain’s dangers. Kenneth Casanova believes a permit system could prevent future tragedies. “That’s it you need for Mt. Baldy. Do you have your permit? If not, you must watch this two-and-a-half minute video, answer this quick quiz and print it out,” he suggested to NBC Los Angeles.
Marcus, who was attending Santa Clara University, was known for his kindness and love of adventure. His parents hope to honor his memory by founding a nonprofit to provide scholarships for kids to experience the outdoors. The family is raising funds for the Marquitos Adventure Club, aiming to share Marcus’s passion for nature with underserved youth.
The U.S. Forest Service is considering new safety measures for Mount Baldy, including trail closures during dangerous conditions.
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