Man dies in fall from California's dangerous Devil's Slide

Officials say the 70-year-old victim may have experienced a medical emergency before plunging to his death.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 70-year-old man died on Tuesday after falling from a cliff along California's treacherous Devil's Slide, a notoriously dangerous oceanside stretch in Pacifica known for steep terrain that has led to several fatal accidents. Officials said witnesses saw the man, identified as Franciscus Blom, experiencing a medical emergency before he plunged to his death.

Why it matters

The Devil's Slide area has a long history of fatal accidents, with several people dying after falling from the cliffs in recent years. This latest incident highlights the ongoing safety concerns and risks associated with this popular but perilous coastal trail.

The details

San Mateo County emergency responders rushed to Gray Whale Cove State Beach, also known as Devil's Slide, just before noon on Tuesday after several people reported that someone had fallen from a cliff. Specialized rescue teams responded but were unable to save Blom. It wasn't immediately clear exactly from where Blom fell, but the area is known to be perilous, with a steep trail leading down to a beach.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Franciscus Blom

A 70-year-old man from Boulder Creek who died after falling from a cliff at Devil's Slide.

San Mateo County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is investigating the death.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the Devil's Slide area and the need for increased safety measures and public awareness to prevent future accidents in this notoriously hazardous location.