A Californian hiker was pronounced dead after a tragic accident that saw her fall down a steep, icy hill.
On Sunday, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department (SBSD) announced that Crystal Paula Gonzalez-Landas, an avid hiker, had succumbed to her injuries after sliding down an estimated 500 to 700 feet on a steep and icy hillside at Baldy Bowl, Mount Baldy in California.
As per a GoFundMe page that was set up, the family paid tribute to the mom-of-four.
"On Sunday, January 8th 2023, it pains us to share, we lost a beautiful soul (our mother) in a tragic accident," the description started.
"Crystal Paula Gonzalez-Landas. Many know her as the dancing hiking queen or hiker for life. She’s known in the community for her fearless hikes and [a] daily dose of inspiration.
"More importantly, she was an amazing mother of four, a sister, and a friend to everyone she met. She is the personification of strength, love, and beauty. She was a beacon of light to everyone who knew her and was always ready to lend a helping hand.
"During this difficult time, the family would appreciate any donations to help lay her to rest. More than anything we just ask that you please share any memories or pictures you shared with her," the post continued.
"We hope her life, her story, and pictures can give the love we shared with her to someone else."
Prior to the incident, the 56-year-old posted a video to Facebook dressed in a fluorescent-green sports jacket with a headlamp on to help her navigate her surroundings in the dark.
"It's go time! Lots of people out today," she can be heard saying in the 14-second clip.
Check out the video below:In a press release dated January 8, 2023, the SBSD explained that the Sheriff's Dispatch received a call from California Office of Emergency Services in reference to an SOS message from a Garmin InReach device.
"The message reported that someone had just fallen down the Baldy Bowl in Mt. Baldy. The information was relayed to the Fontana Sheriff's Station for immediate response," the report stated.
Using coordinates from the Garmin InReach device to help locate Gonzalez-Landas, a patrol helicopter was sent out to assist at the scene. Other hikers were already on site, helping the distraught mom in any way that they could.
A medic was sent down to assess the hiker's "substantial" injuries, but before she could be taken to a nearby medical facility, she sadly passed away.
The report also added that this wasn't the first incident of this nature that resulted in a fatality.
"Many fall victims are reported on the same mountain in the winter season. We encourage hikers to please come prepared and hike responsibly. Wear appropriate clothing for the colder weather conditions and have the proper snow and ice gear with you," it concluded.
Rest in peace, Crystal Paula Gonzalez-Landas. Our thoughts are with her friends and family at this difficult time.