Abandoned vehicle at Big Bend park trailhead leads to discovery of hiker’s body

A hiker at a Texas national park was found dead after rangers noticed a vehicle had been abandoned for several days at the trailhead.

The body of an unnamed 24-year-old hiker was found Monday along the “rugged” Marufo Vega Trail in Big Bend National Park after an aerial and ground search by National Park Service rangers and U.S. Border Patrol, according to the National Park Service.

“The day before, park rangers observed a vehicle that had been parked for multiple days at the Trailhead for Marufo Vega / Strawhouse / Ore Terminal Trail,” NPS said in a release. “Records indicated that there were no overnight backpackers listed for that area for those nights. A quick search by the park pilot was unable to locate hikers in the area.”

The park search and rescue team was mobilized Monday morning across three different trails and air assets were directed to the remote area, officials said.

The victim was then found along the Marufo Vega Trail and a DPS helicopter helped remove the body from the remote area.

“The Marufo Vega Trail is a spectacular yet challenging 14-mile loop that winds through rugged desert and along rocky limestone cliffs,” rangers stated. “No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during the warmer times of year. Even though it is late October, daily temperatures along the Rio Grande and desert areas of Big Bend remain extreme; close to 100 degrees each afternoon. Park Rangers wish to remind all visitors to be aware of the dangers of extreme heat. Hikers should be prepared to carry plenty of water, salty snacks, and to plan on being off desert trails during the heat of the afternoon.”

Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman added that park staff are saddened by the loss and offer condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.

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