SPRINGDALE, Utah — A woman was found dead in Zion National Park after falling while canyoneering.
Park visitors reported seeing the woman fall 50-80 feet Saturday afternoon in Mystery Canyon.
A search and rescue operation was initiated, including a helicopter, but crews were unable to hoist the woman out due to steep and narrow canyon walls.
Medics were eventually able to reach the woman, but she died from her injuries shortly afterward. Zion officials announced Sunday evening that her body has been recovered.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and National Park Service will conduct an investigation, but officials say it appears her injuries were consistent with a high-elevation fall.
The victim was later identified as 26-year-old Cassidy or "Cassy" Brown of Springdale.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the Brown family and friends,” Zion National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh said. “Cassy was widely known in our community and we are all deeply saddened by this outcome.”
Although the investigation is still ongoing, authorities believe it was "a tragic recreational accident."
Some areas of the park were closed Sunday due to the recovery effort.
