HEAT TRAP

Tourist Dies in 116-Degree Death Valley Ordeal

Death Valley National Park ranks among the hottest places on Earth during the summer.

A 68-year-old French tourist died in Death Valley National Park after his vehicle became stuck and he attempted to walk for help through 116-degree heat. Pierre Michel Formosa and a companion were traveling on West Side Road Monday when their vehicle became trapped in mud near Queen of Sheba Mine Road, according to the National Park Service. The men abandoned the vehicle and walked toward Badwater Road. After about 1.3 miles, Formosa could go no farther while his companion continued and eventually found a passing motorist. The companion reported the emergency at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, triggering a search involving park rangers, an Inyo County sheriff’s deputy, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter. Formosa was found approximately 1.5 miles from Badwater Road and pronounced dead. The coroner will determine the cause and manner of death. Park officials warned that extreme heat, vast distances, and limited cellphone coverage can make even experienced visitors vulnerable. Death Valley National Park ranks among the hottest places on Earth during the summer.