The incident occurred on Friday when a 31-year-old father and his two stepsons, aged 14 and 21, were hiking along the Marufo Vega Trail in temperatures of 119°F. The younger boy fell ill and lost consciousness, prompting the 21-year-old stepson to attempt to carry him back to the trailhead while the father sought help.
The park's Communications Center received an emergency assistance call around 6:00 p.m. a team of park rangers and U.S. Border Patrol agents arrived at the scene around 7:30 p.m. The younger boy was found deceased along the trail, while the father was located half an hour after his vehicle crashed over the embankment at Boquillas Overlook. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The surviving stepson's name has not been released, and the incident remains under investigation.
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The NPS describes the Marufo Vega Trail as "potentially deadly from April through September" due to high temperatures, lack of shade, and lack of potable water. The trail is strenuous and winds through rugged desert and rocky cliffs within the hottest part of Big Bend National Park. The NPS advises visitors to share their expected return times with someone else before heading out, as there is no cell coverage in the area. Big Bend is experiencing extreme heat with daily highs of 110°F-119°F at low elevations and along the Rio Grande.
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This tragic incident highlights the dangers of hiking in extreme heat and the importance of being prepared for such conditions. The NPS recommends carrying plenty of water, wearing appropriate clothing and sun protection, and taking frequent breaks in the shade. Visitors should also know their physical limitations and avoid overexertion in the heat. Our thoughts are with the victims' families during this difficult time.
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