Hiker Died After Falling 300-Feet From Manly Beacon in Closed Death Valley National Park, CA

A body was found by hikers at the base of Manly Beacon in Death Valley National Park, CA on Saturday. Officials believe the person fell 300-feet to their death off the popular landmark. Death Valley National Park is currently closed to all recreation.

• Related: National Parks Are Closing Due to COVID-19, Many Still Offering Virtual Tours

Due to insufficient time and resources, the body was not recovered until the following day. On Sunday several agencies including the Inyo County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Coordinators, Inyo County Search and Rescue, Death Valley National Park Rangers and the CHP – Inland Division Air Operations (H-82) responded to the scene.

A rental vehicle was found at the trailhead, which NPS Rangers reported had been there for about three days prior to the discovery of the body. The identity of the body is still pending positive identification by the Inyo County Coroner’s office.

Officials reminded everyone to stay away from “risky outdoor recreation at this time due to emergency medical care being prioritized by COVID-19 patients and limited rescue resources.”