CNN
—
Former Dallas Cowboys tight end Gavin Escobar was one of two climbers who died after an apparent crash in California, officials said Wednesday. Escobar was 31 years old.
Firefighters attempted to reach two injured climbers at Tahquitz Rock near Idyllwild in the San Bernardino National Forest, Cal Fire and Riverside County Fire Department said on Twitter Wednesday.
Later that day, the department said rescuers had reached the scene and “both victims perished at the scene.” The Riverside Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office identified the victims as Escobar and 33-year-old Chelsea Walsh.
Escobar was selected by the Cowboys with the 47th pick in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
He played four years in Dallas before joining the Baltimore Ravens for one season. He finished his NFL career with 30 receptions and eight touchdowns, all with the Cowboys.
The Cowboys posted a tribute on their Twitter page late Thursday, remembering the tight end.
Escobar last played in the NFL in 2018.
Earlier this year, Escobar began working as a firefighter for the Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD).
In a Facebook post, the LBFD said, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the death off duty of Long Beach Firefighter Gavin Escobar.”
The LBFD said he leaves behind a wife and two young children.
