Park rangers discovered human remains in Grand Canyon National Park on Monday, prompting an investigation by federal and local authorities.
Remains Found Near Crystal Rapid on Colorado River
The discovery occurred near Crystal Rapid along the Colorado River, according to a press release issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The National Park Service recovered the remains and transported them to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office in Flagstaff, Arizona, for identification and determination of cause of death.
Investigation Underway
Officials have not released details regarding the identity of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding the death. The investigation remains active as authorities work to establish a timeline and notify next of kin.
Grand Canyon National Park spans over 1.2 million acres in northern Arizona and attracts millions of visitors annually. The area around Crystal Rapid is a remote section of the river corridor typically accessed by river rafting expeditions or backcountry hikers.
The Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct a forensic examination. Further information is expected to be released pending identification and notification of family members.