The tragic end of a French tourist in Death Valley: He lost his life after exiting his vehicle that had become stuck in mud.

The U.S. state of California's Death Valley National Park was the setting for a tragic incident in which a tourist lost his life. 68‑year‑old French tourist Pierre Michel Formosa, while traveling with a companion, walked to seek help after his vehicle got stuck in mud. Formosa died under extreme heat.

Their vehicle got stuck in mud on the salt flats.

According to the National Park Service, Formosa and another unnamed French citizen were stuck on the salt flats while driving on West Side Road on August 17.

Unable to encounter a vehicle that could help them in the area, the two tourists found their only option was to get out of the car and seek help.

However, the weather in Death Valley quickly turned the situation critical. That day, temperatures rose to about 46.6 degrees.

About 2 kilometres later, he collapsed on the ground.

Two tourists began walking in search of help. Formosa, after walking about 2.1 kilometres, could no longer continue and remained where he was.

The person beside him continued walking and encountered a driver passing by the road. The situation was then reported to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.

Upon the report, National Park Service teams and Inyo County sheriff's deputies began a search‑and‑rescue operation in the area. A helicopter belonging to the California Highway Patrol also supported the operation.

Formosa was found by the teams later that same day. However, it was determined that he had died at the scene.

Officials warned about extreme heat.

Death Valley National Park officials highlighted how quickly temperatures in the area can turn into a life‑threatening danger.

Park Manager Mike Reynolds, stating that the incident again highlighted the dangers posed by the heat, remoteness, and desolation of the area, offered his condolences to Formosa's family and loved ones.

The exact cause of Formosa's death will be determined after an examination by the forensic pathologist of the Inyo Region.

Temperatures in Death Valley are expected to approach 48 degrees.

In Death Valley, one of North America's hottest and driest regions, an extreme heat advisory is in effect. Meteorological officials warned that temperatures could reach as high as 47.8 degrees.

Officials noted that cell‑phone service in the park is limited or nonexistent at many points, and that it could take hours for emergency responders to reach the scene.

Visitors are advised to check weather and road conditions before traveling, carry sufficient water and basic supplies, and, if possible, bring a satellite communication device or emergency beacon.

The National Park Service also emphasizes that staying in the vehicle is generally safer than leaving it when a vehicle-related issue occurs. The vehicle provides shelter from the sun and also makes it easier for search and rescue teams to locate the vehicle compared to a person walking in open terrain.