Costa Mesa Eagle Scout Dies After Rattlesnake Bite

Family seeks independent autopsy after 25-year-old's tragic death on Irvine trail

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:09pm

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Julian Hernandez, a 25-year-old Costa Mesa resident and Eagle Scout, died on February 1 after being struck by a rattlesnake while mountain biking on the Quail Hill Trail in Irvine, California. He was rushed to the hospital but later slipped into a coma and passed away. His family has launched a GoFundMe campaign and requested an independent autopsy to understand the circumstances around his death.

Why it matters

Venomous snakebites are uncommon but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. This tragic incident highlights the importance of hiking and biking safety, as well as the need for clear communication from authorities about the cause of death in such cases.

The details

Hernandez was mountain biking the Quail Hill loop when a rattlesnake struck him. He reportedly tried to pedal his way out for help before the venom overwhelmed him. The Orange County Fire Authority responded to a medical emergency at the trailhead and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he remained in the ICU. Officials initially listed the cause as an animal bite, but Hernandez's family has pushed back, saying they want more clarity on what happened and have initiated a third-party autopsy.

  • On February 1, Hernandez was bitten by a rattlesnake while mountain biking on the Quail Hill Trail in Irvine.
  • Hernandez was rushed to the hospital and remained in the ICU.
  • Hernandez died on Wednesday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Julian Hernandez

A 25-year-old Costa Mesa resident and Eagle Scout who died after being struck by a rattlesnake while mountain biking.

Orange County Fire Authority

The emergency response team that transported Hernandez to the hospital after the incident.

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What they’re saying

“It's very important to get to the emergency room as soon as possible.”

— Dr. Mona Sedgehian, Hoag Hospital in Irvine

What’s next

Hernandez's family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover hospital and memorial costs, and to support their search for answers through an independent autopsy.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of hiking and biking safety, as well as the need for prompt medical attention in the event of a venomous snakebite. It also highlights the importance of clear communication from authorities and the value of independent investigations when there are questions about the circumstances surrounding a death.