Woman dies after being swept up by current in Colorado River
Jun 13, 2022, 6:23 PM
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — A 47-year-old woman has died after officials say she fell into the Colorado River while on a commercial river trip.
The tragic incident happened around 2 p.m. Saturday.
According to a news release from Grand Canyon National Park, commercial guides reached the woman by boat, pulled her from the river and immediately began CPR. National Park Service search and rescue personnel also responded to the scene, but they were unable to revive the woman.
The victim was identified Monday as 47-year-old Sheetal Patel, who is originally from Chicago, Illinois, but most recently from Chattanooga, Tennessee.
“Patel was cooling off along Pipe Creek Beach, when she was caught by the current in the Colorado River. Patel hiked into the canyon to meet the river trip at Phantom Ranch, and was beginning a multi-day boating trip,” stated the release.
The fatal incident is currently being investigated by the National Park Service in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner.
Before heading down trail, park officials said hikers should read the Hiking Tips page and check the Backcountry Updates and Closures page.
“All visitors to Grand Canyon should ensure they are drinking plenty of fluids, resting in shade during the heat of the day, watching for signs of distress in traveling companions, and dressing appropriately for the weather, which includes light-colored and loose-fitting clothing,” stated the release.
Additional hiking safety information can be found here.