25-Year-Old Mountain Biker Dies After Rattlesnake Bite in California

Julian Enrique Hernandez succumbed to fatal injuries nearly a month after being bitten by a rattlesnake while on a trail in Irvine.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:38pm

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A 25-year-old mountain biker in Irvine, California, Julian Enrique Hernandez, died nearly a month after being bitten by a rattlesnake while on a trail. Hernandez was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment but ultimately passed away on March 4 due to complications from the animal bite.

Why it matters

Rattlesnake bites, while rare, can be life-threatening if not treated quickly and effectively. This tragic incident highlights the importance of awareness and caution when spending time outdoors in areas known to have venomous snakes, as well as the need for prompt medical attention when bitten.

The details

On February 1, Hernandez was adjusting his shoe at the Quail Hill Trailhead in Irvine when he fell into some brush and was bitten by a rattlesnake. He was rushed to the hospital and placed in the Intensive Care Unit, but ultimately succumbed to his injuries on March 4. The Orange County Coroner's Office officially attributed his death to the animal bite.

  • On February 1, Hernandez was bitten by a rattlesnake at the Quail Hill Trailhead in Irvine.
  • Hernandez died on March 4, nearly a month after the initial rattlesnake bite.

The players

Julian Enrique Hernandez

A 25-year-old mountain biker who died after being bitten by a rattlesnake while on a trail in Irvine, California.

Irvine Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that provided details on the circumstances surrounding Hernandez's fatal rattlesnake encounter.

Dr. William Woo

A physician at Kaiser Permanente who commented on the rarity of deaths from rattlesnake bites and the importance of prompt antivenom treatment.

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What they’re saying

“He was adjusting his shoe on his bike, which caused him to fall over into some brush and then it's our understanding that that's when the rattlesnake bit him.”

— Kyle Oldoerp, Irvine Police Department Public Information Officer

“A lot of factors matter. Your age, location of the bite, how quickly you get care, underlying conditions, but even if all of that is in your favor, it is still a possibility.”

— Dr. William Woo, Physician, Kaiser Permanente

What’s next

Authorities have urged people to stay on marked trails and remain vigilant during warm days when rattlesnakes tend to appear.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by venomous wildlife, even in popular outdoor recreation areas. It underscores the importance of caution, awareness, and prompt medical care when encountering rattlesnakes or suffering a bite, as complications can quickly become life-threatening.