On October 27, park rangers noticed a stray vehicle at the beginning of the Marufo Vega trailhead. The fact that the car had been parked for several days caused the rangers to worry. But they didn’t see any backpackers listed in the registry who planned to spend the night. On this party trail, hikers have the option to take advantage of three different trails: Marufo Vega, Strawhouse, and Ore Terminal Trail.

The park pilot made the first search in the area, but the search efforts were unsuccessful.

The next day, October 28, rescue teams set out to locate the person by searching by air and land. The teams examined three separate paths that could be reached from the beginning of the path where his car was parked. The young man’s body was discovered on the “rugged” Marufo Road and was later removed by a Department of Public Security helicopter.

Agencies participating in the search included National Park Service Rangers, U.S. Border Patrol, Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations.

The name of the 24-year-old victim has not yet been released.

“The Marufo Vega Trail is a spectacular but challenging 14-mile loop through rugged desert and along rock limestone cliffs. No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during warm times of the year.” National Park Service (NPS) stated.

Big Bend National Park, where the Marufo Vega Trail is located, is located in southwestern Texas and is approximately 500,000 visitors per year.

The National Park Service reminds visitors to be wary of extreme temperatures, even in October. Additionally, keep the 10 Essentials with you and leave your detailed itinerary with someone you trust at home.

“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman said. “Our entire park family extends its condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”