A French tourist died in Death Valley National Park after his vehicle became stuck in mud and he attempted to walk for help in extreme heat. Pierre Michel Formosa, 68, was found dead on August 17, according to park officials.
Formosa and a companion were traveling on a remote road when their vehicle became immobilized. With no other vehicles nearby, the two men left the car and began walking across the salt flats. Temperatures that day reached 116 degrees Fahrenheit, and Formosa was unable to continue after walking just over a mile.
His companion continued on and encountered a passing motorist who helped alert park officials. Search and rescue teams were dispatched and located Formosa, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The Inyo County coroner is expected to determine the official cause of death.
One day before his death, Formosa had posted on Facebook about his journey into Death Valley, joking about the intense heat at Furnace Creek, where temperatures reached 117 degrees Fahrenheit. He noted the area is about 190 feet below sea level and described the cooler as essential for their trip.
Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds described the incident as a "heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous." He emphasized that Death Valley's heat, vast distances, and remoteness can pose significant risks, even for experienced visitors.
Death Valley National Park officials advise visitors to carry at least one gallon of water per person per day and to bring additional supplies for vehicle emergencies. They also recommend that stranded motorists remain with their vehicles whenever possible.