PLACER COUNTY – Valentino “Val” Creus, a respected Filipino American tax professional from Los Angeles, was among three men who died after jumping into the icy waters of Rattlesnake Falls near Soda Springs on June 18. He was 59 years old.
The other victims were identified as Matthew Schoenecker, also of Los Angeles, and Matthew Anthony of New York City. All three were part of a six-man hiking group exploring the remote Sierra Nevada waterfall when they leapt into the plunge pool below and failed to resurface. With no cell reception and fast-moving, snowmelt-fed currents, their companions were unable to call for help immediately.
Fatal fall at Rattlesnake Falls
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office launched a multi-day recovery operation under grueling conditions—battling strong currents, freezing temperatures, and murky underwater visibility. Supported by CAL FIRE’s Technical Rescue Team, the Sheriff’s Dive Team, and a CHP helicopter, authorities airlifted the surviving hikers to safety.
After several days of delays due to dangerous water conditions, volunteer diver Juan Heredia of Stockton located and helped recover the bodies on June 22. Heredia later described the operation as “brutal,” with water depths exceeding 45 feet and frigid temperatures that pushed the limits of human endurance.
A life of purpose and mentorship
Creus was a Tax Partner at Turner, Warren, Hwang & Conrad AC (TWHC), a Los Angeles-based accounting firm, where he specialized in tax strategy and nonprofit compliance. A double graduate of the University of Southern California (USC), he earned both an MBA and a Master’s in Business Taxation. Colleagues and clients alike admired his quiet leadership, generosity, and integrity.
Creus and his companions were volunteers with the International Circle of Genetic Studies, a global mentoring initiative that connects professionals with students pursuing genetics and molecular biology. The organization confirmed their involvement through a public tribute, and peers described the three men as committed advisors who offered both academic insight and personal guidance.
“They weren’t just hikers,” said one associate. “They were men of purpose—leaders in their fields, grounded in service, and devoted to helping others.”
Final moments and heroism
According to witness accounts, Creus entered the water first and appeared to be in distress. Schoenecker and Anthony attempted to rescue him, but all three were overtaken by the current and vanished beneath the surface. The group had attended early morning Mass together before the hike—underscoring the spiritual bond that united them.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office later released a statement:
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss.”
Dangers in California’s wilderness
Authorities continue to warn that Sierra Nevada rivers and waterfalls, especially during snowmelt season, pose hidden dangers. Even strong swimmers may suffer cold shock, muscle failure, and rapid disorientation when immersed in near-freezing alpine water.
Rattlesnake Falls, while scenic, is a remote and unregulated location with no posted warnings or cellular access. Officials are evaluating whether new signage or seasonal closures should be considered.
