Tri-Cities Native Gilbert Garcia Dies in Arizona Hiking Accident
Gilbert “G” Garcia, a 31-year-old Tri-Cities native, died after falling 40 feet from the Mormon Trail at South Mountain Park and Preserve near Phoenix, Arizona, on June 5. According to The Arizona Republic, Garcia suffered severe injuries and passed away after emergency crews airlifted him to a hospital.
Garcia was hiking with his brother when the fall occurred. His brother called for help, prompting Phoenix emergency crews to climb down the slope and hoist Garcia up for helicopter transport, according to reports.
Why did the accident happen on the Mormon Trail?
Fire officials told Arizona media they do not know the exact cause of the fall. However, they noted that high temperatures typical of early summer may have contributed to the accident, according to reports.
The Mormon Trail is a scenic route within the South Mountain Park and Preserve, located roughly 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix. The trail is described as being steep in various sections.
Who was Gilbert Garcia?
Born in Kennewick and raised in the Tri-Cities, Garcia earned his GED in Pasco. He later moved to Arizona to attend the Universal Technical Institute, where he earned an associate’s degree and a degree in automotive technology, his obituary states.
Garcia rose to the position of foreman at the Gilbert Audi dealership in Phoenix. Despite his career success, he had plans to move back to the Pacific Northwest to study for a cybersecurity certificate, according to TV reports.
His mother, Marie Ortiz, told Arizona 12 News that her son loved nature, reading, and learning. Garcia’s background included five years of baseball and time spent in the Young Marines starting at age 13, followed by the practice of mixed martial arts.
What happens next for the family and community?
A funeral mass is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kennewick. Mueller’s Tri-Cities Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Family and friends in the Tri-Cities have planned a memorial hike up Badger Mountain in Richland. This event is intended to honor Garcia’s memory and raise awareness regarding safe hiking practices.
The family utilized GoFundMe to cover funeral costs and the expenses associated with returning Garcia’s body to the Tri-Cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the hiking accident occur?
The accident took place on the Mormon Trail in the South Mountain Park and Preserve, located near Phoenix, Arizona.
What was Gilbert Garcia’s professional background?
Garcia was a high-performance automotive technician and foreman at a Gilbert Audi dealership, with expertise in luxury brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini.
What caused the fall according to officials?
While the exact cause is unknown, fire officials told media that high early-summer temperatures may have been a contributing factor.