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Tourist dies in Death Valley National Park after car gets stuck in 116-degree heat
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- A 68-year-old French tourist, Pierre Michel Formosa, died in Death Valley National Park after his car became stuck in mud and he attempted to walk for help in 116-degree heat.
- Formosa and a travel companion were stranded on a remote road on August 17; after walking about 1.3 miles across salt flats, Formosa was unable to continue and was later found deceased by park rangers.
- The companion eventually found help, leading to a search involving park rangers, a county deputy, and a helicopter; Formosa was pronounced dead at the scene, with the cause of death pending coroner's report.
- Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds expressed condolences and emphasized the dangers of Death Valley's extreme heat, remoteness, and harsh conditions, despite its appeal as a unique destination.
- Death Valley is known as the hottest place on Earth, with record temperatures reaching 134 degrees Fahrenheit, and its dry, extreme environment poses significant risks to visitors.
