French Tourist Dies in Death Valley After Vehicle Stuck in Mud

A 68-year-old French tourist has died in Death Valley National Park after becoming stranded in extreme heat when his vehicle got stuck on a remote road. The visitor, identified as Pierre Michel Formosa, was traveling with a companion when their car became mired in mud along the unpaved West Side Road near Queen of Sheba Mine Road. With temperatures reaching 116 degrees Fahrenheit, the pair attempted to walk across the open salt flats toward the more traveled Badwater Road to seek assistance. After walking approximately 1.3 miles, Formosa was unable to continue. His companion pressed on alone and eventually reached Badwater Road, where a passing motorist provided help.