Tourist dies after car gets stuck in mud at Death Valley National Park

Tourist dies after car gets stuck in mud at Death Valley National Park His travel companion called for help after reaching National Park Service rangers but it was too late - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments A French tourist has died after getting stranded in a national park as temperatures reached 116 degrees Fahrenheit (46C). Pierre Michel Formosa, 68, and his fellow traveler, both from France, were driving along West Side Road in California’s Death Valley National Park when their car got stuck in mud near Queen of Sheba Mine Road on Aug. 17. With no other vehicles nearby, the two men set off on foot across the salt flats toward Badwater Road to seek help. After walking about 1.3 miles in the blazing temperatures, Mr. Formosa was unable to go any further. His companion continued toward Badwater Road, where a passing driver eventually rescued him. He reported the situation to park officials at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center shortly after 2 p.m. National Park Service rangers and an Inyo County deputy launched a search and rescue operation for Formosa. Joined by a California Highway Patrol helicopter, searchers located the man later that afternoon, roughly 1.5 miles from Badwater Road. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Inyo County coroner will determine the official cause and manner of death. "Our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the visitor who died," said Death Valley National Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds. "This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous. Death Valley is an extraordinary place, but its heat, distances, and remoteness can be dangerous, regardless of experience. We’re grateful to everyone who took part in the search, and our thoughts are with his loved ones." Death Valley dangers Death Valley National Park encompasses expansive, isolated terrain where cell phone service is sparse or non-existent, and emergency assistance can take hours to arrive. Park officials urge all visitors to take these steps before setting out: - Plan your route in advance and check current road and weather conditions. - Tell someone your plans — where you're going and when you expect to return. - Carry ample water and supplies. The park recommends at least one gallon of water per person, per day, plus extra for vehicle emergencies. - Match your vehicle to the road. Many backcountry roads require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles, and conditions can change without warning. - Bring a way to call for help where cell service may not reach, such as a satellite communicator or emergency beacon. - If your vehicle becomes disabled, staying with it is often the safest choice. It provides shade and shelter, and it's far easier for search teams to spot than a person on foot in open terrain. - During periods of extreme heat, visitors are encouraged to stay on paved roads and avoid hiking at lower elevations. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments