Third Fatality of the Week at Grand Canyon National Park: Missing Person Found Deceased

Rangers at the Grand Canyon found the body of Leticia Castillo, 20, of Albuquerque, marking the third death at the national park since July 31. Castillo was discovered 150 feet below an overlook on the canyon’s South Rim. On August 2, the body of a BASE jumper was found 500 feet below Yavapai Point, also on the park’s south rim. BASE jumping is banned in the Grand Canyon and generally prohibited across the national park system. The park spokesperson mentioned challenging conditions at the park during the summer months, with an increase in dangerous incidents and fatalities. Between 2014 and 2023, there have been roughly 17 deaths per year at the park, with hiking being ranked as the most dangerous recreational activity based on National Park Service data. Since 2019, between 2 million and 5 million people have visited the Grand Canyon each year. An investigation into the death of another individual, Abel Mejia from Indiana, who fell to his death near an overlook on the park’s South Entrance Road on July 31, is ongoing. The park has seen a total of 11 deaths since January, with an increase in dangerous incidents and fatalities during the summer months. Despite the natural beauty of the park, it presents significant risks and challenges for visitors, and safety precautions are essential to prevent accidents and fatalities.

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