A 68-year-old French tourist died on August 17 in California’s Death Valley National Park after his vehicle became stuck in mud while traveling on West Side Road, near Queen of Sheba Mine Road. Temperatures reached 116°F (47°C) that afternoon, according to the National Park Service (NPS).
Pierre Michel Formosa and his travel companion left the vehicle and attempted to walk across salt flats toward Badwater Road to seek assistance. After covering approximately 1.3 miles, Formosa was unable to continue. His companion continued alone, encountered a passing motorist, and reported the incident at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center just after 2:00 p.m.
Search and rescue efforts began at 2:13 p.m., involving NPS rangers, an Inyo County deputy, and a California Highway Patrol (CHP) helicopter. Formosa was located later that afternoon about 1.5 miles from Badwater Road and pronounced dead at the scene. The Inyo County coroner will determine the cause and manner of death.
Park officials issue safety warnings
Death Valley National Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds expressed condolences to Formosa’s family and emphasized the park’s hazards. "This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous," Reynolds stated. "Death Valley is an extraordinary place, but its heat, distances, and remoteness can be dangerous, regardless of experience."
The park, known as the hottest place on Earth, recorded an all-time high of 134°F (56.7°C) in July 1913. Officials recommend visitors bring at least one gallon of water per person per day, along with extra supplies for vehicle emergencies. Roads in the park often require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles, and officials warn that conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
Timeline of events
- August 17, afternoon: Formosa’s vehicle becomes stuck in mud on West Side Road; temperatures reach 116°F.
- Approx. 1.3 miles walked: Formosa unable to continue; companion continues alone.
- After 2:00 p.m.: Companion reaches Badwater Road, receives assistance from a passing motorist, and reports the incident at Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
- 2:13 p.m.: Search and rescue operation begins with NPS rangers, Inyo County deputy, and CHP helicopter.
- Later that afternoon: Formosa located and pronounced dead at the scene.
- Pending: Inyo County coroner’s determination of cause and manner of death.
Park safety guidelines for visitors
- Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day, plus extra for vehicle emergencies.
- Use high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles for park roads.
- Avoid hiking during peak heat hours; plan activities for early morning or evening.
- Check weather and road conditions before traveling.
- Inform others of travel plans and expected return times.