Renowned adventurer and YouTube personality Andrew Cross has passed away at the age of 36, a month after suffering critical injuries in a severe car accident in Colorado.
Best known as “Desert Drifter” to his half-million YouTube followers, Andrew succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday after being taken off life support. His sister, Jenna Spooner, confirmed the news on CaringBridge, stating, “Andrew’s spirit is free, surrounded by light and love.”
Before his passing, Andrew was honored in the ICU as staff lined the hallway while he was taken on a mobile ventilator walk. Surrounded by loved ones, his family and friends read scripture, prayed, and sang as his life support was removed.
The decision to take Andrew off life support was made earlier in the week, following concerns about his growing discomfort. Despite initial signs of stability, his condition worsened in late February, with visible distress during routine procedures.
A Virginia native, Andrew dedicated his YouTube channel to exploration and adventure, bringing history to life through desert tours and mountain climbs. His content resonated with thousands, inspiring a loyal community of viewers.
Tragically, Andrew was involved in a two-car crash on January 31 while stopped at a light when he was rear-ended at high speed. The Mesa County Coroner’s Office confirmed that his death was a result of injuries sustained in the collision.
![The Virginia-born, Colorado-based adventurer's sister Jenna Spooner revealed his passing 'was peaceful and full of love in the room with [his wife] Evelyn (L, pictured in 2023) by his side, his parents, and close friends nearby'](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/03/06/00/95891713-14466657-The_Virginia_born_Colorado_based_adventurer_s_sister_Jenna_Spoon-a-23_1741221719209.jpg)
Just a day before his passing, Jenna reflected on the immense support and love shown for Andrew, saying, “He truly lived life to the fullest. His story and impact aren’t over yet.”
Andrew was married to Evelyn, a speech-language pathologist, for over three years. His family launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $482,000 of a $510,000 goal to assist Evelyn with medical expenses and other financial burdens.
Evelyn expressed her gratitude to Andrew’s supporters, saying, “Your prayers and support mean the world. We’re so grateful for everyone who watched his videos.”
Following weeks of prayers, consultations, and medical evaluations, Andrew’s family ultimately decided to let him go, acknowledging that a machine-dependent life was not what he would have wanted.
The driver responsible for the crash, Ragnar Nickolas Kristl, has been charged with vehicular homicide, reckless driving, careless driving, and driving under the influence.
Andrew’s fans, deeply saddened by the loss, have flooded social media with tributes. One supporter wrote, “Desert Drifter was an inspiration. I eagerly awaited every video he dropped.” Another reflected, “Thank you for sharing the deep-rooted history of the West. Your soul is now free to wander.”
Many praised Andrew’s work for showcasing the beauty of the American West, its indigenous history, and its breathtaking landscapes. “He provided us with glimpses of the incredible archaeology and nature of the Southwest. What a terrible loss,” one fan lamented.
Andrew Cross leaves behind a legacy of adventure, knowledge, and respect for the natural world, a testament to his passion for storytelling and exploration. His impact will live on through the Desert Drifter community and the countless lives he touched.
