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🇫🇷 France /Disasters & Emergencies

French tourist dies in Death Valley from extreme heat

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • A 68-year-old French tourist died in California's Death Valley National Park after his car broke down and he attempted to walk for help.
  • The man, Pierre Michel Formosa, became stranded on an isolated road with a travel companion on August 17 under extreme heat reaching 47°C (117°F).
  • Park officials are using the incident to remind visitors of the extreme dangers of the park's heat and isolation, urging thorough preparation.

A French tourist's life was tragically cut short in the extreme conditions of Death Valley National Park. Pierre Michel Formosa, 68, died on August 17 after his vehicle became stuck on an isolated desert road. He and his travel companion, also French, were on the park's "West Side Road" when their car got bogged down.

Our most sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased visitor.

— Mike ReynoldsThe Superintendent of Death Valley National Park expressed condolences and highlighted the park's dangers.

With no other vehicles in sight, the two men decided to trek across the salt flats toward Badwater Road to seek assistance. The temperature that day soared to 47°C (117°F). After walking about two kilometers (1.2 miles) in the intense heat, Formosa could no longer continue.

His companion pressed on, eventually flagging down a passing motorist and alerting the visitor center. Park rangers and a county sheriff's deputy launched a search. A California Highway Patrol helicopter located Formosa about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) from Badwater Road later that afternoon. His death was confirmed at the scene.

This tragedy is a tragic reminder of how quickly conditions can become dangerous.

— Mike ReynoldsThe Superintendent of Death Valley National Park commented on the incident and the park's perilous conditions.

Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds expressed condolences, stating, "This tragedy is a tragic reminder of how quickly conditions can become dangerous." He emphasized that Death Valley's heat, vastness, and isolation pose significant risks, even to experienced visitors. The National Park Service advises visitors to plan meticulously, carry ample water, and consider a satellite communicator for emergencies.

Death Valley is an extraordinary place, but its heat, distances, and isolation can prove perilous, even for experienced visitors.

— Mike ReynoldsThe Superintendent of Death Valley National Park warned about the park's extreme environment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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