French tourist Pierre Michel Formosa died in Death Valley National Park after his car became trapped in mud during extreme heat.
Pierre Michel Formosa, a 68-year-old tourist from France, died in Death Valley National Park after his vehicle became stranded in thick mud on a remote backcountry road. While traveling with a companion, Formosa and his friend attempted to walk across the salt flats to find help in temperatures reaching 116 degrees Fahrenheit. After walking approximately 1.3 miles, Formosa was unable to continue and was eventually located by a search team consisting of park rangers, a county deputy, and a helicopter crew. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds issued a statement expressing condolences and warned of the park's extreme conditions. Officials noted that staying with a vehicle provides better shade and shelter than walking in open terrain. The Inyo County Coroner’s Office will conduct an investigation to determine the exact cause and manner of death.