19-Year-Old College Wrestler Dies After Falling Near Yosemite Waterfall

A hiking trip with friends resulted in the death of 19-year-old Ryan George, a college wrestler, who fell approximately 400 feet near Illilouette Falls in Yosemite National Park. According to KRON4, George lost his footing while hiking. Santa Rosa Junior College Coach Fred Duerr described George as a genuine and positive individual, stating, "If you knew Ryan, you know he was one of the most genuine, positive people you could ever meet." Duerr praised George's leadership and character, saying, "Always smiling, always encouraging, always full of life. He was an amazing leader and wrestler, but more than that, he was an amazing human." Montgomery High School wrestling coach Ian Hesz also remembered George fondly, noting, "He never complained, never grumbled. He was always smiling, always helping. He was a stellar teammate." George had a notable wrestling record, having won the North Bay League title at 217 pounds and finishing second in the North Coast Section tournament as a senior, according to the New York Post.