7 Dead Several injured in Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah…

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is renowned for its distinctive geological formations known as hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that have been shaped by erosion over millennia. The park attracts visitors worldwide, eager to experience its unique landscapes and diverse hiking trails. However, like many natural attractions, it has also been the site of tragic incidents that underscore the inherent risks associated with outdoor adventures.

Tour Bus Accident in September 2019

One of the most significant tragedies occurred on September 20, 2019, when a tour bus carrying Chinese-speaking tourists crashed near the park. The incident resulted in at least four fatalities and left numerous others critically injured. According to reports, the bus veered off the road, collided with a guardrail, and overturned onto its side. Of the 30 individuals on board, including the driver, all sustained injuries. Emergency responders transported 17 patients to Garfield Memorial Hospital in Panguitch, where three were in critical condition, 11 in serious condition, and three in fair condition.

The victims were identified as Ling Geng (68), Xiuyun Chen (67), Zhang Caiyu (62), and Zhongliang Caiyu (65), all from Shanghai, China. The tour group consisted of 29 tourists and one leader, hailing from various regions including Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Heilongjiang provinces. Chinese-speaking translators were urgently sought to assist at the scene, with local universities and community members offering support.

Hiking Fatality in August 2023

Another tragic event occurred on August 25, 2023, when 64-year-old Jeanne Roblez Howell from Sedona, Arizona, was reported overdue after a hike on the Fairyland Loop trail. A subsequent search operation, involving the Bryce Canyon National Park staff, Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, and the Utah Department of Public Safety, led to the discovery of her body in Campbell Canyon, approximately a mile east of the Fairyland Loop. She was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Garfield County medical examiner. The area had experienced heavy rain earlier that day, resulting in flash flooding in the northern sections of the park, which may have contributed to the incident.

Safety Measures and Recommendations

These incidents highlight the potential dangers associated with both vehicular travel and hiking in national parks. Visitors are advised to:

• Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and park alerts before and during your visit.
• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to posted signs, stay on designated trails, and respect all safety instructions provided by park authorities.
• Be Prepared: Carry adequate water, wear appropriate footwear, and inform someone of your itinerary.
• Use Seatbelts: Ensure seatbelts are worn at all times when traveling in vehicles, including tour buses.

By observing these precautions, visitors can enhance their safety and fully appreciate the natural beauty that parks like Bryce Canyon have to offer.