Manassas Hiker Dies At The Grand Canyon, National Park Service Says

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, AZ — A hiker from Manassas died on Saturday at the Grand Canyon National Park, the National Park Service said in a news release.

Park officials identified the man as 55-year-old Ranjith Varma. Authorities did not say what could have caused Varma's death. The National Park Service is investigating the incident with the Coconino County Medical Examiner.

The National Park Service said Varma was attempting a single-day hike from the South Rim to the North Rim at the park.

Around 1:55 p.m. local time on Saturday, authorities received an emergency call for a hiker in distress. The hiker was on the North Kaibab Trail near the Cottonwood Campground, authorities said.

After bystanders called for help, the hiker became unresponsive, according to the news release. The bystanders started CPR.

First responders used a helicopter to get to the scene, but they were unable to resuscitate the hiker.

Park officials have not said what could have caused the hiker's distress. In a news release, the National Park Service warned hikers about the dangers of extreme heat on the trails. They noted that temperatures can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade in exposed areas.

"Park rangers strongly advise not hiking in the inner canyon during the heat of the day between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.," the National Park Service said. "Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed during the summer months 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."

More information about hiking safety is available online.