Tragedy struck at Big Bend National Park in Texas when a 14-year-old boy lost his life after embarking on a hike with his stepfather and brother in extreme heat.

The stepfather, in a desperate attempt to seek assistance, hiked back to their vehicle but tragically died in a car accident, as reported by officials, USA Today reported.

The park’s communication center was contacted around 6 p.m. local time, as an emergency aid request was made along the Marufo Vega Trail, according to a news release issued by park officials on Saturday.

Notably, the temperatures during that time reached a scorching 119 degrees, further exacerbating the challenging conditions, as stated in the release by park officials.

Unfortunately, the 14-year-old boy fell ill and eventually lost consciousness while on the trail.

In response, the 31-year-old stepfather decided to hike back to their vehicle in search of help, leaving the 21-year-old brother to carry his ailing sibling back to the trailhead.

Written by staff