French tourist dies in Death Valley after car gets stuck in mud

A 68‑year‑old French tourist, Pierre Michel Formosa, was found dead after his vehicle became stuck in mud on the side of West Side Road in Death Valley National Park. Facing temperatures of 46.6°C (116°F), Formosa and his travelling companion tried to seek help by walking across the salt flats, but the extreme heat halted him after 1.3 miles.

A view of Badwater Basin, a surreal salt flat, the lowest point in North America during extreme heat wave in Death Valley National Park of California, United States on August 2, 2026
The 68‑year‑old was found dead around the salt flats of Death Valley.

Death Valley Superintendent Mike Reynolds said the incident is a “heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous.” A brief search by police and rangers ultimately located Formosa in the afternoon, where he was pronounced dead. The cause and manner of death will be determined by coroners.

A national‑park warning about an extreme heat wave is currently in effect, and Southern California is expected to experience its “hottest week of summer so far.” Heat‑related deaths have claimed the lives of several hikers this year, including those on the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

The park expresses gratitude to all who aided in the search and extends its thoughts to Formosa’s loved ones.