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Date: November 30, 2009
Contact: Ron Terry, 435-772-0160

Tammy Grunig, 50, of Pocatello, ID and St. George, UT fell to her death in Zion National Park on Friday, November 27, 2009.  The fall of approximately 1,000 feet occurred on the north side of Angels Landing while Mrs. Grunig was hiking the popular route of the same name.  The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the fall in cooperation with the National Park Service; this is standard procedure in the case of fatalities in Zion National Park.

The fall was first reported by a 911 call from another hiker’s cell phone; St. George Police Dispatch Office received the call at approximately 2:10 p.m.  The park was immediately notified and park rangers were dispatched to Angels Landing while a ground search and rescue team was mobilized and sent to the location to begin the search for the victim.  The Angel’s Landing trail was closed for a short time during investigation and recovery operations; Mrs. Grunig’s body was located and recovered by 6:30 p.m. 

Zion National Park Superintendent Jock Whitworth would like to express his condolences to the Grunig family.  In addition, he reminds visitors that hiking, canyoneering and climbing in the park can be dangerous and should not be underestimated.  Good planning, proper equipment and sound judgment are essential for a safe and successful trip.