A 10-year-old boy has tragically passed away following a rescue operation on South Mountain in Phoenix on Tuesday.
Emergency responders were summoned to the Mormon Trailhead near 24th Street and Baseline around 2 p.m. due to the boy suffering from heat exhaustion.
According to firefighters, the child was located approximately a mile away from the trailhead, accompanied by family members. Video footage from Arizona’s Family news helicopter captured firefighters administering CPR to him on the trail.
Rescue teams utilized a basket to transport him, and a helicopter from the Phoenix Fire Department airlifted him off the mountain. He was then transferred to an ambulance and rushed to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his condition.
Reports suggest the boy had been on the trail for several hours, potentially starting his hike in the mid-morning prior to the emergency call.
Phoenix Fire officials noted that the boy and his family were visitors from out of town. Although the day’s forecasted high was 113 degrees Fahrenheit, the National Weather Service had not issued an extreme heat advisory.
“We have many wonderful hiking trails in Phoenix, and we encourage people to use them early in the morning or late in the evening,” said Phoenix Fire Capt. Shaun Dubios. “It’s crucial to avoid direct sun exposure, seek shade, stay hydrated, and minimize time outdoors during peak heat.”