Body found on ‘rugged’ trail in Big Bend National Park after rangers see abandoned car
An abandoned car in a parking lot led searchers to the body of a hiker in Big Bend National Park, officials said.
The body of a 24-year-old hiker was found Oct. 28 along the “rugged” Marufo Vega Trail in the Texas park, according to a National Park Service news release. Officials did not release the hiker’s name.
Park rangers noticed a car at the trailhead that had been there for “multiple days,” officials said.
After confirming there were no records of overnight backpackers in that area, the park pilot conducted a “quick search,” but didn’t see anyone, officials said.
A search and rescue team was “mobilized across three different trails,” leading to the discovery of the victim in a remote area along the Marufo Vega Trail, according to the release.
“The Marufo Vega Trail is a spectacular yet challenging 14-mile loop that winds through rugged desert and along rocky limestone cliffs,” park officials said. “No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during the warmer times of year.”
Officials said even in October, daily temperatures can reach close to 100 degrees.
“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman said in the release. “Our entire park family extends condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”
