Longtime Golden West High School boys basketball coach and Visalia teacher Drew Hall died while hiking in a remote and rugged area of Sequoia National Park, officials confirmed Monday afternoon.
Described as “fit and active,” Hall’s is the fifth death to occur in Sequoia National Park this year.
Hall, 36, was hiking off-trail Saturday in steep terrain when he suffered a fatal medical emergency, according to a statement from the National Park Service. Hall had been hiking alone and was later found by friends and a search and rescue team after concerned family members reported him overdue.
He’d separated from his group and told them he would meet them at a checkpoint Saturday afternoon. When he didn’t show up, friends called rangers.
Park rangers said the area Hall was hiking in is known for its difficult access and challenging conditions, with sharp elevation gains, loose rock and limited cellphone service. Recovery efforts around 3 p.m. Monday required the use of specialized teams and equipment due to the remote location of where his body was found.
Hall was a PE teacher for Visalia Unified School District and in 2024 marked his 10th season with the Trailblazers at Golden West High School.
“I love Golden West. I love the school. I love the admin,” he told the Visalia Times-Delta in 2024. “I love just the whole culture, all the other coaches. It’s a great place to be. It’s just been a blessing, a privilege. I don’t take it for granted. Not many people make it to 10 years anymore for various reasons. It’s definitely a blessing.”
Hall was married with two small children. A GoFundMe.com site was created to help the family with costs associated with Hall’s death. Their goal is $35,000 − they hit more than $25,000 by early Tuesday. More than 160 people have donated.
“We are raising money for Drew Hall’s family after his tragic, unexpected passing,” the post states. “Drew was an amazing family man and a great basketball coach for Golden West High School. He truly loved his players and family and was always helping others. He leaves behind his wife and two daughters, please help us with supporting them. Anything will help.”
Visalia Superintendent Kirk Shrum said the district is mourning the loss of one of their own and helping teachers and staff get through the tragedy.
“We are deeply saddened by Drew’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with his family,” he said. “The district has communicated supports and resources to those staff and students impacted by his loss and will continue to make grief support services available during the weeks and months ahead.”
Sequoia and Kings Canyon emergency crews have been used for 60 search and rescue incidents this year, five of which occurred over this past weekend.
Sequoia National Park, established in 1890, is one of the oldest national parks in the United States and is home to Mount Whitney — the tallest peak in the continental U.S. — as well as the world-famous General Sherman tree. The park’s wilderness covers more than 800,000 acres and attracts thousands of backcountry hikers every year.
The National Park Service reminded visitors to plan ahead, stay on marked trails when possible, and let someone know their itinerary.
The incident remains under investigation.
This story was updated to add more information.
This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Visalia teacher, Golden West High School boys basketball coach Drew Hall dies on Sequoia hike
Reporting by Meade Trueworthy / Visalia Times-Delta
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
