Overview
- Pierre Michel Formosa, 68, was found dead by rescuers after his vehicle became stuck in mud on West Side Road near Queen of Sheba Mine Road and he attempted to walk across salt flats in 116°F heat.
- Formosa stopped after roughly 1.3 miles while his travel companion continued to Badwater Road, flagged down a passing motorist and reported the situation to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
- National Park Service rangers and an Inyo County deputy began a search shortly after the report, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter located Formosa about 1.5 miles from Badwater where he was pronounced dead.
- Death Valley National Park officials said the Inyo County coroner will determine the official cause and manner of death and Superintendent Mike Reynolds offered condolences while warning visitors about the park’s dangers.
- Park authorities reiterated practical safety steps for visitors—plan routes, carry extra water and supplies, tell someone your plans, and expect limited or no cell service on remote roads—because delayed help can turn minor problems into life‑threatening situations.