Death Valley’s Brutal Heat Claims Second Victim This Summer

Death Valley National Park has witnessed its second heat-related fatality of the summer, prompting fresh warnings about the extreme conditions in the region. On August 1, temperatures soared close to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, exacerbating the perilous landscape.

The victim, identified as 57-year-old Peter Hayes Robino from Duarte, California, was reportedly seen struggling back from the one-mile roundtrip Natural Bridge Trailhead. Bystanders noticed his confusion and offered assistance, which he declined. Shortly after, he attempted to drive away but drove his vehicle off a 20-foot embankment, as per a National Park Service news release.

Bystanders rushed to help, guiding him back towards the parking lot where they sought shade. One individual called 911 at approximately 3:50 p.m., and emergency responders arrived within 20 minutes. Witnesses noted that Robino was breathing until mere moments before help arrived. Rescuers performed CPR and transported him to an air-conditioned ambulance.

Unfortunately, efforts were unsuccessful, and Robino was pronounced dead at 4:42 p.m. An autopsy revealed that the cause of death was hyperthermia, a dangerous condition characterized by overheating. Symptoms include confusion and lack of coordination, both of which were observed by witnesses.

This incident marks the second death linked to extreme heat in the park this summer. In July, a motorcyclist lost his life while traversing the desert in record heat, which reached 128 degrees Fahrenheit. Another member of that group was hospitalized, while several others received on-site treatment for heat-related issues.

To mitigate risks, park officials maintain a large red stop sign at Badwater Basin, warning visitors of extreme heat dangers, particularly after 10 a.m. Emergency medical helicopters also face limitations in flying safely under such temperatures. Park rangers reiterate that summer hikers should avoid trails in the valley after 10 a.m., stay within a 10-minute walk of air-conditioned vehicles, and prioritize hydration and sun protection.