​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 20, 2025

MEDIA CONTACTS: Community Relations Liaison Lindsey Stine, (760) 878-8576

​Update: Deceased Individual Recovered from Mt. Whitney Identified as Joseph Brambila

​On December 20, 2025, the Inyo County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity of the deceased individual recovered from Mt. Whitney as Joseph Brambila.

​The Inyo County Sheriff’s Office initially received a report on November 12, 2025, of a deceased individual located in the area known as the 99 Switchbacks, a steep and hazardous section of the Mt. Whitney Trail. Preliminary information indicated the individual appeared to have suffered a significant fall. When Mr. Brambila was recovered, there were no personal items or belongings present that could be used for identification.

​Due to the remote location, technical terrain, and multiple storms that impacted the area shortly after the report, recovery operations required extensive planning and coordination. On December 15, 2025, following multiple helicopter-assisted and ground operations, Mr. Brambila was successfully recovered.

​The Inyo County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Brambila and appreciates the public’s patience and understanding throughout this complex recovery operation.

​No further information will be released.

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