Man Dies at Grand Canyon After Slipping Over Edge, Falling More Than 100 Feet, Sheriff’s Office Says

Key Highlights

  • A 65-year-old man died after slipping and falling over the edge of the Grand Canyon in Guano Point area.
  • The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team conducted a technical rope recovery operation.
  • The incident occurred on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at around 2 p.m.
  • No identity of the deceased has been publicly released by the authorities.

Risk of Falling in Grand Canyon Escalates

The National Park Service (NPS) reported an alarming incident on Thursday, November 6, 2025, where a 65-year-old man tragically lost his life after slipping over the edge into the canyon at Guano Point area, located within Grand Canyon West. This occurrence highlights ongoing safety concerns in one of America’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Technical Rescue Operation

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team was promptly called to assist with the recovery operation. The team set up a lowering and raising system using ropes, which they employed to recover the victim from an estimated 130 feet down on a scree pile. This technical approach underscores the complexity of such rescues in rugged terrain.

According to official statements, “Search and Rescue responded and located him about 130 feet down on a scree pile. Technical rope technicians set up a lowering and raising system using ropes to recover him and convey the body to the Mohave County Medical Examiners Office,” said the sheriff’s office.

Recent Fatalities in Grand Canyon National Park

In recent years, Grand Canyon National Park has seen several tragic incidents related to visitors and hikers. This latest fatality follows closely on the heels of another incident that occurred earlier this month, where a 27-year-old man from Colorado died after his car drove over the rim of the canyon at South Kaibab Trailhead.

The NPS identified the deceased as Steven “Drew” Bradley, who plunged hundreds of feet into the depths of the canyon. This accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with navigating the park’s steep cliffs and edges without proper caution.

Respect for Privacy

In light of this tragic event, authorities have expressed their condolences to the deceased man’s family while urging the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time. The statement from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office added: “Our condolences are with his family. Please respect their privacy during this time.” This emphasizes the importance of maintaining dignity and sensitivity in such circumstances.

The incident at Guano Point is just one more example of why visitors to Grand Canyon National Park should exercise extreme caution, especially when near the edges or cliffs. Safety measures, such as wearing appropriate footwear, using handrails where available, and adhering strictly to park guidelines, are essential for preventing accidents like these.