Police are investigating what they called an “unusual” incident.
Imagine setting off on what you expect to be a beautiful hike, only for the day to end in tragedy. A 30-year-old hiker was found dead, and her parents are hospitalized after officials believe they suffered from heat exhaustion while hiking through Snow Canyon State Park in Utah. According to police, this is what unfolded in a recent, heart-wrenching incident.
First responders rushed to the scene after receiving a call about a medical emergency at Snow Canyon State Park on July 13. They arrived to find two individuals battling what seemed to be heat-related issues. While they worked to assist the two, a passerby brought their attention to another hiker who was unconscious not far away. Sadly, the responders discovered the 30-year-old female, and she had already passed away.
USA TODAY has made attempts to obtain more information from Santa Clara-Ivins police and Snow Canyon State Park.
Hiker remembered as adventurous, ‘very outgoing’
The tragic victim was identified as Belyruth Ordóñez, along with her parents Dario and Humbelina Ordóñez, as reported on a GoFundMe page and various local accounts. Friends painted a vivid picture of Belyruth as someone who cherished her family, loved to explore, and embraced life with an adventurous spirit.
“She was just very friendly, very outgoing,” her friends Yeraldine Calderon and Marlon Olaya shared with CBS 2 KUTV. “We’ve known her for over a decade. It’s utterly unbelievable and heart-wrenching to lose a close friend so suddenly.”
Belyruth Ordóñez was a psychology student at Utah Valley University and had worked as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Her warmth and friendliness were reflected in heartfelt messages left on her Facebook page, including a poignant tribute from a friend that read, “Friend, I’m going to miss you a lot. Fly high, and we will find each other soon.”
GoFundMe set up to help the family
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Ordóñez family as they grapple with medical treatments and the overwhelming loss of their beloved daughter.
“In this time of profound grief and hardship, we humbly ask our community to come together to support the Ordóñez Family,” reads a statement on the fundraising page. “We are raising funds to cover funeral and medical expenses. Any contributions and prayers are deeply appreciated.”
Police believe the incident is related to heat exhaustion
With rising temperatures becoming an ever-present reality, the police are emphasizing the necessity of staying hydrated and taking precautions during outdoor activities.
“As temperatures soar, it’s absolutely vital to maintain a regular intake of water, especially when outdoors,” advised the police. The incident, which remains under investigation, underscores the need for awareness of the risks that high temperatures can pose.
Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety noted, “Due to the unusual nature of this incident, no further information will be shared at this time.”
What to know about risk of heat illness
With summer’s scorching heat upon us, it’s crucial to be informed about the risks of heat-related illnesses. Here are some key points shared by the National Park Service (NPS):
Increased risk factors for heat illness include high temperatures, strenuous physical activity, lack of acclimatization to the heat, dehydration, and certain medications or health conditions.
Given these factors, when venturing outdoors, plan ahead: carry ample water, take breaks often, and stay shaded or cool whenever possible.
What to do when facing a heat stroke, the deadliest heat illness
Among the various types of heat-related illnesses, heat stroke is the most dangerous and can swiftly become fatal if untreated. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing the appropriate response can save lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of heat stroke include a high body temperature (above 103°F), hot, red, dry, or damp skin, a fast, strong pulse, nausea, confusion, and unconsciousness.
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, the CDC advises the following actions:
Move the person to a cooler place, preferably indoors or at least into the shade.
Help lower their body temperature with cool cloths or even a cool bath if possible.
Do not offer them anything to drink if they are vomiting or unconscious.
It’s vital to seek immediate medical attention, as heat stroke is a medical emergency.
At the end of the day, let’s honor Belyruth’s memory by staying safe and informed out there. Drink water, cherish your loved ones, and when the going gets tough, remember: the shade is your best friend!
