Tucson, AZ — (Pima County Sheriff’s Department / News Release) — On Saturday, September 17, 2016, at 5:15 p.m., the Search and Rescue Unit along with the Southern Arizona Rescue Association (SARA) and Department of Public Safety Air Rescue, responded to Saguaro National Park West to assist the National Park Service in the search for a missing hiker.
Deputies learned a 57-year-old male had gone missing near the Hugh Norris Trailhead after he separated from his companions at around 11:45 a.m.
At approximately 8:13 p.m. search crews located the missing man approximately a quarter-mile from the trailhead and determined he was deceased. A
single empty bottle of water and an empty CamelBak water container were located in the victim’s possession.
While the cause of death will be determined by the Office of the Medical Examiner (OME), it is believed the death may be heat related.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the National Park Service would like to remind everyone that preparation for outdoor activities is a year-round responsibility. At any time of the year, the temperature in the early mornings can be cooler, but extreme heat can still set in as the day progresses. It is essential to always carry an abundance of water and to be prepared for any inclement weather.
[Featured image credit: Oregon Live]
