Officials reported on Monday that a Grand Canyon hiker perished over the weekend in Arizona while attempting to walk from rim to rim in one day.
Ranjith Varma, 55, of Manassas, Virginia, was attempting to hike from the South Rim to the North Rim on Saturday afternoon when he became unresponsive approximately one mile south of Cottonwood Campground along the North Kaibab Trail, according to the National Park Service.
The NPS stated that rangers responded to the emergency contact about the injured hiker around 2:00 p.m. and deployed a helicopter with search and rescue personnel.
The bystanders performed CPR until the arrival of the rangers.
Officials stated that the rescue helicopter required “specialized” maneuvers to reach the mountaineer in the remote location. Rangers attempted advanced life support but were unable to revive the hiker.
In the shade, summer temperatures on exposed portions of the trail can exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit, according to park officials. Rangers recommended that visitors avoid trekking in the inner canyon between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
“Be aware that efforts to assist hikers during the summer months may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, employee safety requirements, and limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather,” park officials warned.
NPS and the Coconino County Medical Examiner are conducting an investigation into Varma’s demise.
There was currently no additional information available.
