Sacramento, California – In a heartbreaking incident that has deeply affected the Sacramento and Yosemite communities, Matthew Mullen, a 20-year-old assistant cook at Camp Mather, tragically lost his life in a fatal hiking accident at Yosemite National Park. The incident occurred on Thursday, August 8, 2024, while Mullen was enjoying a day off with colleagues.
Matthew Mullen, known affectionately as Matt, was a dedicated and positive young man who had quickly become a beloved member of the Camp Mather community. The camp, located near the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, is a popular summer destination for families from San Francisco, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Yosemite.
The sudden and tragic loss of Matt Mullen has sent shockwaves through the close-knit Camp Mather community. According to Daniel Montes, a spokesperson for San Francisco Recreation and Parks, "Camp Mather is a unique place where staff form close and lasting bonds quickly. Losing a colleague in such a way is unimaginable."
In response to the tragedy, the San Francisco Department of Public Health acted swiftly, sending grief counselors to the camp the following day to provide support to both staff and campers. The department has also pledged ongoing support through its employee assistance program to help Matt’s coworkers navigate their grief in the coming weeks.
Matt Mullen will be remembered as an adventurous and upbeat young man with a can-do attitude that endeared him to everyone he worked with. His contributions to Camp Mather, though tragically cut short, left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the campers he served. The community is united in their grief and in their celebration of Matt’s life, as they continue to mourn the loss of a colleague and friend.
The investigation into the circumstances of the accident is ongoing, with further details yet to be released. As the community mourns, they draw strength from one another, honoring the memory of a young man who brought joy and positivity to all those around him.