Ethan James Tyler, an 18-year-old from Oroville, California, died in the early morning hours of October 26, 2026, while on his way to work. His sudden passing has brought profound sadness to his family, friends and the wider Paradise and Oroville communities. Born on May 1, 2008, in Paradise, Ethan was affectionately known as “E” by those closest to him.
Ethan spent the first ten years of his life in Paradise before his family relocated to Oroville following the Camp Fire. He attended Paradise Elementary School and later Paradise High School, where he became a dedicated member of the football programme. His passion for the sport began when he was just eight years old, and he continued playing through his senior year, representing the Paradise Bobcats on both offence and defence.
Those who knew Ethan remember a young man whose smile and positive attitude could brighten the people around him. He was committed to his teammates, coaches and friends, rarely missing a practice or game. Beyond football, he enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, skiing and building things, while also treasuring time spent with family and friends on Lake Oroville and during summer gatherings.
After graduating from Paradise High School in 2026, Ethan pursued his interest in the electrical trade. He had begun an apprenticeship with Bunch Electric in Paradise in the summer of 2025 while still in school, before moving on to work as an electrical trainee with Barnum & Celillo Electric in Sacramento. He was excited about developing his skills and building a future in the profession.
Ethan’s passing leaves a deep emptiness in the lives of those who loved him, but his memory will continue through the relationships he built and the experiences they shared. His family has established the Ethan Tyler Memorial Scholarship to support future high school graduates entering the electrical trades, helping with tuition, tools and other needs. A celebration of his life is scheduled for November 7 at Paradise Alliance Church, where loved ones will gather to honour a young man whose journey ended far too soon.
