Horror as tourist dies on popular trail in Sequoia National Park

A Nevada man died along a popular Sequoia National Park trail on Thursday.

John Francis Oliver, 79, was visiting the national park when he faced a medical emergency that led to his death on the General Sherman Tree Trail in the park, officials said.

Authorities were called in earlier this week after a report of a “medical emergency” along the one-mile trail that leads to the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on the planet. 

Rebecca Roland, a spokesperson for the National Parks Service, said that the first responders quickly reached the spot and provided emergency medical treatment to Oliver.

The park has not released any more details of the incident “out of respect for the family,” Roland told SFGATE.

Tomas Lopez, a detective with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, told the news outlet that despite the medical efforts, the 79-year-old was pronounced dead in the park.

On the day of the incident, an extreme heat advisory by the National Weather Service was in place. However, it is unknown at this moment if high temperatures caused Oliver’s death. 

Just a month ago, 17-year-old Andrea Diaz Mondragon from Santa Maria had died in Sequoia National Park.

She was visiting the park with her older brother and a group of friends for the first time when she slipped into a river, was pulled down by the water’s current and drowned.

“She dreamed of becoming a nurse and was passionate about helping others. Andrea loved to dance, spending time with her family and friends, and bringing joy to those around her.

“She was known for being outgoing, strong, brave, and caring,” Mondragon’s  family said in a statement on GoFundMe. 

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters