Body Recovered From Mt. Whitney Identified As Hiking YouTuber Joseph Brambila
A body discovered on Mount Whitney on Monday, December 15, has been identified as missing hiker Joseph Brambila. The 37-year-old was last seen in November after setting out on a solo trek. Authorities confirmed the identification on Saturday, December 20.
Brambila was reported missing on November 12 when he failed to return from his hike. His last known location was Trail Crest, a high point on the mountain where he had filmed a video of himself glissading—sliding down snow—just months earlier in June.
Search teams conducted extensive helicopter-assisted and ground operations before recovering the body. Despite the efforts, Brambila’s girlfriend, Darlene Molina, described feeling helpless during the ordeal. She recalled him as a cautious and experienced hiker who would turn back if conditions became unsafe.
The Inyo County Sheriff’s Office has since offered condolences to Brambila’s family and friends.
The Inyo County Coroner’s Office completed the formal identification on December 20. Brambila’s death marks the end of a weeks-long search effort. No further details about the circumstances have been released.
