SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (KION-TV/KEYT-TV)- The San Luis Obispo Search and Rescue Team said that a 21-year-old Cal Poly Student was found dead on Saturday afternoon.

According to our affiliate KEYT, Kenneth Taylor was hiking along Salmon Creek on Highway 1 on Saturday afternoon when San Luis Obispo Sheriff's Office received a call for assistance.

Deputies located Taylor who was found dead along the trail at a base of a waterfall on Salmon Creek Trail. Deputies said that foul play was not suspected.

The San Luis Obispo Sheriff's Office said that the Monterey County Sheriff's Office assisted in finding Taylor's body due to the closure on Highway 101.

KEYT said the Monterey County Sheriff's Office transported Taylor's body for forensic investigation and a coroner's exam will take place before the body is returned to his family.

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo shared a statement on Monday mourning Taylor's passing.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Cal Poly student Kenneth Taylor’s passing this past weekend. Kenneth, a third-year student majoring in mechanical engineering from Richland, Washington, died Saturday, April 6, after an accident during a trip to Big Sur.

Kenneth was an outdoor enthusiast: he was a founding member of the Alpine Club, participated in activities with the Surfrider Foundation, and served as a trip leader for ASI Poly Escapes. ASI staff described him as “a person of incredible technical skill and even more incredible kindness, unmatched wittiness, and a passion for adventure that could inspire anyone.”

The university is in touch with Kenneth’s family and is extending its full support to them and his friends. Our thoughts are with them as they grieve their loss.

It is never easy to share news like this, and we know that processing this loss can be difficult for members of our community. Please know that we care about your well-being and strongly encourage you to utilize the following resources below if you need additional support.
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo President Jeffery D. Armstrong and Vice President for Student Affairs said in a joint statement.

University officials said that they are offering students and campus employees assistance with counseling services available to all.

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