Visitor dies in Death Valley after becoming stranded in 116-degree heat

Pierre Michel Formosa, 68, and a companion began walking for help after their vehicle became stuck in mud. Temperatures reached 116 F as officials investigate his death.

A 68-year-old visitor from France died after becoming stranded on a remote road in Death Valley National Park, where temperatures climbed to 116 degrees Fahrenheit that day.

Pierre Michel Formosa was visiting the park with a companion on Aug. 17 when their vehicle became stuck in mud near Queen of Sheba Mine Road, a less-visited area of the park.

With no other vehicles nearby, the two men began walking across the salt flats toward Badwater Road to find help, according to the National Park Service. After about 1.3 miles, Formosa was unable to continue.

His companion kept walking and eventually received help from a passing motorist. He reported the incident at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center shortly after 2 p.m., around the hottest part of the day.

"A California Highway Patrol helicopter joined the search and located the man later that afternoon, approximately 1.5 miles from Badwater Road. He was pronounced dead at the scene," the NPS said in a statement.

The Inyo County coroner is investigating the cause and manner of death, including whether the intense heat contributed.

"Our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the visitor who died,” Death Valley National Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds said. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous."

Extreme heat, long distances and the park's remote terrain can quickly create dangerous conditions for visitors, particularly during the summer months. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day, before afternoon temperatures commonly exceed 110 F.

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