A hiking accident at Angel Falls in Madera County, California has claimed the lives of James Hall, 35, and Monica Ledesma, 34. The couple was found dead on Friday, June 21, 2024, following an emergency call about a woman floating in the water.
The Madera County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call regarding an unresponsive woman near Bass Lake. Ledesma’s body was found first, and items belonging to Hall were discovered nearby, prompting a search. His body was recovered shortly after that by a team comprising the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Forest Service, Madera County Fire, CAL Fire, Sierra Ambulance, and the California Highway Patrol helicopter unit.
Ledesma, a mother of two, and Hall are remembered for their kind and loving nature. Ledesma leaves behind an eight-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter. Nancy O’Hara, a friend of the couple, described them as “family by heart,” emphasizing their kindness and sense of humor. “Not only were they kind and considerate, and took care of us old folks, [they] took care of the young folks,” O’Hara said.
Hall’s family revealed that he lost his life while attempting to rescue his girlfriend. “James died a hero trying to save Monica. Sadly, they both were taken from us,” the family mentioned in a statement on a GoFundMe page created for his funeral costs.
A vigil held on Friday at the Chukchansi Pow Wow grounds commemorated the couple. Hall’s mother expressed her immense grief, stating, “This could be the most difficult day of our lives, but I believe it has a purpose and is driven by love.” Monica’s mother highlighted her daughter’s affectionate nature and her strong bond with Hall.
Sheriff Tyson Pogue offered his condolences to the families and warned hikers about the hidden dangers of seemingly safe trails. The Sheriff’s Office urged hikers to be cautious around water bodies, noting that rocks can be deceptively slippery and water temperatures dangerously cold and swift.
Angel Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along Willow Creek in Sierra National Forest, near Bass Lake in Madera County, California. It features a 60-foot cumulative drop over a slanted granite slope, making it a popular destination for hikers and visitors. The trail to Angel Falls is moderately challenging, with multiple scrambling paths leading to various cascades. The hike is approximately three miles round trip and takes around three and a half hours. Hikers are advised to exercise caution due to slippery rocks and cold water.