Update on 6-18-2017 Fatality in Big Bend National Park

Date: June 21, 2017
Contact: Jennette Jurado, 432-477-1109

The woman who died in Big Bend National Park on Sunday, June 18th, has been identified as Cathlyn Weir of Cedar Hill, Texas. A cause of death is yet to be determined.

Mid-morning on the 18th, the couple started hiking the Dog Canyon Trail. Nearing noon, both individuals started exhibiting signs of heat distress and dehydration. The woman’s hiking partner was able to hike back to the trailhead and notify the park of the situation around 2:30 pm. An interagency response included Park Rangers and Border Patrol Agents. The remains were located around 4:20 pm. Shade temperatures were reported at 110 degrees in that area of the park that day.

Big Bend National Park’s staff wishes to send sincere condolences to the friends and family of the deceased, and reminds all visitors to take precautions when visiting the park during periods of intense heat and severe conditions.