YouTuber Andrew Cross dies aged 36 after being taken off life support weeks after horror crash -

Read Time:3 Minute, 0 Second

March 6, 2025, Colorado: Andrew Cross, the 36-year-old adventurer and YouTuber known as ‘Desert Drifter,’ passed away on March 4, 2025, following complications from a severe car accident in Colorado. The incident occurred on January 31 when Cross was rear-ended at high speed while waiting at a stoplight, resulting in a traumatic brain injury that left him in a coma for over a month.

The Mesa County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Cross’s injuries were sustained “when he was rear-ended at high speed while waiting at a stoplight.” His sister, Jenna Spooner, shared the news of his peaceful passing on the CaringBridge website, stating, “Andrew’s spirit is free, surrounded by light & love.”

In her heartfelt message, Jenna detailed the moments leading up to Andrew’s passing: “Before removing Andrew from life support yesterday, they put him on a mobile ventilator and walked a loop around the whole ICU while all the available staff lined the hallway as a way to honor him. Then in the room, friends & family read scripture …. It was peaceful and beautiful.”

Advertisements

Cross’s wife, Evelyn, along with his parents and close friends, were present during his final moments. The family had previously made the “difficult decision” to remove Andrew from life support, acknowledging his discomfort in late February. Jenna expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, noting, “Andrew really lived life to the … . We look forward to more of that … .”

The tragic accident occurred when Cross was returning from filming a video at Bears Ears National Monument in Utah. He was at a stoplight when a van collided with his vehicle, causing a brain bleed. The driver of the van, Ragnar Nickolas Kristl, has been charged with vehicular homicide, reckless driving, careless driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

In the aftermath of the accident, Cross’s family and friends rallied to support him and his wife, Evelyn. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist with medical expenses, raising over $479,000. The campaign description highlighted the community’s admiration for Cross, stating, “Andrew has brought so much beauty and history to life through his explorations of the American Southwest.”

Andrew Cross began his YouTube journey in November 2023, quickly amassing nearly 500,000 subscribers. His channel, ‘Desert Drifter,’ featured exploration and adventure with a historical twist, documenting desert tours and mountain climbs. His genuine passion for the wilderness and history resonated with viewers, making his content both informative and inspiring.

Fans and fellow adventurers have expressed their condolences and shared memories of Cross’s impact. His final Instagram post from August 2024, captioned “Desert Driftin,” showcased a canyon landscape, reflecting his love for exploration. The post has since been filled with tributes, with one fan writing, “Andrew, you have been a light in my life through your videos. Praying for you.”

Cross’s dedication to preserving ancient sites and his deep connection to nature were evident in his work. A friend, Tara Winter, described him as “one of the best people … ,” adding, “He was genuine, … .”

The YouTube community and its followers continue to mourn the loss of a creator who inspired many to appreciate the beauty and history of the American Southwest. As his sister Jenna aptly stated, “Andrew really lived life to the … .”