A 68-year-old French tourist, Pierre Michel Formosa, has died in Death Valley National Park after his vehicle became stuck in mud. He was travelling with another French man along the park’s remote West Side Road when their car became stranded near Queen of Sheba Mine Road.
With no other vehicles nearby, the pair walked across salt flats towards Badwater Road in search of help. Temperatures reached 47C (116F) during their walk, according to the National Park Service (NPS).
After walking approximately 1.3 miles (2km), Formosa was unable to continue. His companion proceeded towards Badwater Road and eventually received help from a passing driver. Formosa's plight was reported to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, leading to a search and rescue operation. He was located that afternoon and pronounced dead at the scene.
The NPS has issued a caution regarding the dangers of Death Valley's heat, distances, and remoteness. Mike Reynolds, the Death Valley National Park superintendent, stated that conditions can turn dangerous quickly. The park recommends precautions such as planning routes, checking conditions, carrying at least one gallon of water per person per day, and ensuring vehicles are suitable for the terrain.