Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts in the Grand Canyon after flash floods swept through Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area on Saturday, leaving one person dead and approximately 15 others missing. The intense rainfall sent a torrent of water and debris through the canyon, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and leading to the evacuation of over 60 people.
Dr. John Giusti, a 46-year-old chiropractor from Granbury, Texas, was among the hikers reported missing. Giusti, who was visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time with two friends, was described as fit and active. His relatives last spoke with him around 2 p.m. on Saturday, shortly before the flooding began. His wife, Janet Giusti, posted a plea for prayers for her husband and his group following the incident.
A 46-year-old man's body was recovered Sunday near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River, according to the National Park Service. His identity has not yet been released. The National Park Service is seeking information from anyone who may have been in the Bright Angel Creek corridor on Saturday.
The flooding, which began around 2:30 p.m. Saturday, obliterated footbridges, carried debris into the Colorado River, and damaged essential infrastructure. The park's water pipeline was also impacted, leading to emergency water restrictions and the closure of overnight accommodations.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs expressed her support for the affected families and thanked the first responders involved in the search and recovery efforts. Several areas of the park remain closed as assessments of the damage continue and rescue operations persist.