YOSEMITE, Calif. (KFSN) — The tragic loss of 22-year-old Josue Alfaro, who passed away after falling over Nevada Fall in Yosemite National Park, has left his family in deep sorrow. They remember him as a compassionate, diligent young man filled with aspirations.
“Josue was a genuinely caring, charismatic, humorous, and loving individual with a tireless work ethic,” remarked Silvia Carolina Valdez, Alfaro’s cousin.
Authorities reported that on June 20, Alfaro fell over Nevada Fall. Search teams discovered his body at the waterfall’s base the next day.
Affectionately known as “Kike,” Alfaro arrived in the United States at 17 and began residing with family members in Los Angeles. Valdez shared with Action News that he had migrated to seek a brighter future.
“He sought asylum in this great nation after his older brother fell victim to gun violence,” she explained.
Valdez, who served as Alfaro’s legal guardian while he lived in the United States, said he was hiking with friends when he tripped and fell into the water.
“The undercurrent dragged him under. Many people attempted to save him. Freesia Gaul, who was the off-duty lifeguard, who courageously jumped in and tried to save him was unable to reach him,” Valdez said.
Family members said Alfaro worked in construction and often spent long stretches on the job. Valdez said the Yosemite trip was one of the few opportunities he had taken for himself.
“He had so much life and so many dreams ahead of him. The one time he was able to take a vacation for himself, he didn’t want to go to New York or Las Vegas. He wanted to go to Yosemite. He just loved the outdoors,” she said.
Valdez said Alfaro’s death has deeply affected his family, particularly his mother.
“I can’t imagine losing her eldest son and now her second eldest son. She brought him here, did everything she could to bring him here so he could be safe. Right now, I just care about taking him back to El Salvador to give her that peace,” she said.
Despite their grief, family members said they are finding comfort in their faith and support from their community.
“I just want people to remember him for who he was. Not the way that he died, but the way that he lived. He was loved. He mattered. He had dreams, ambitions, and goals,” she said.
The family said they hope to bring Alfaro to El Salvador soon and are waiting for the coroner’s report. A GoFundMe has been established to help with funeral costs and related expenses.
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