A man fell to his death after attempting an illegal BASE jump at Yavapai Point on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, marking the second fatality at the site in two days.

The man, whose identity remains undisclosed pending positive identification, fell approximately 500 feet to his death despite having deployed his parachute. This incident, which is now under investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office, highlights the dangers and legal ramifications of BASE jumping, a prohibited activity within Grand Canyon National Park. The tragic event adds to the growing number of fatalities at the popular tourist destination, which sees an average of 10-15 deaths annually.

The incident occurred at Yavapai Point, a popular viewpoint on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Park rangers responded to the scene and found the man with his parachute deployed, suggesting that an attempt to slow his descent was made, but tragically it was not enough to prevent a fatal outcome.

The body of the victim was recovered on Friday morning. Due to the challenging terrain and the location of the fall, park rangers used a helicopter to retrieve the body. Once recovered, the body was transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination and positive identification.

BASE jumping, an extreme sport that involves parachuting from fixed objects such as buildings, antennae, spans (bridges), and cliffs (earth), is illegal in all areas of the Grand Canyon National Park. Despite the ban, enthusiasts occasionally attempt jumps due to the allure of the park's dramatic landscapes and heights.

This tragic accident marks the second fatality at the Grand Canyon within a span of two days. The causes and circumstances of the other recent fatality have not been detailed, but the two incidents punctuate a period of increased risk and tragedy in the park.

The ongoing investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office aims to uncover more details surrounding the incident. These investigations are crucial not only in determining the events leading up to the fatal fall but also in reinforcing the importance of safety regulations within the park.

Annual statistics indicate that the Grand Canyon witnesses an average of 10-15 deaths per year due to various causes, including falls, medical emergencies, and environmental factors. The rugged terrain, high altitudes, and extreme temperatures can pose significant hazards to visitors, necessitating strict adherence to safety guidelines and regulations.

The victim's identity has not been released, pending notification of next of kin and positive identification by the medical examiner. This step ensures that family members are appropriately informed before any public announcement is made.

The National Park Service regularly advises visitors about the risks associated with venturing too close to the edges of the canyon and engaging in unauthorized activities like BASE jumping. The park's vast expanse and natural beauty can create a false sense of security, leading some to underestimate the inherent dangers.

As the investigation continues, officials urge visitors to familiarize themselves with and respect the park's regulations to prevent future tragedies. Safety in the Grand Canyon not only relies on the precautions taken by the park authorities but also on the responsible behavior of the visitors themselves.