The body of an Arizona woman who went missing following flash flooding in Grand Canyon National Park several days ago was recovered Sunday, park rangers said.
The body of Chenoa Nickerson, 33, of Gilbert, a Phoenix suburb, Arizona, was discovered about 11:30 a.m. Sunday by a group floating down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, according to a statement from park officials.
Rangers found Nickerson’s body and transported it by helicopter to the rim, where it was transported to the Coconino County Coroner’s Office.
In a statement released Sunday, her family thanked searchers and supporters and asked that their privacy be respected.
“We are saddened to announce that our beloved Chenoa has been found deceased. Our hearts are heavy with sadness,” the statement said.
“Chenoa’s light will forever be a part of all of us and we strive to ensure her spirit continues to shine brightly. Her memory will never fade and we will honor her by carrying on the joy and love she brought into all of our lives.”
According to National Park Service officials, Nickerson was swept into Havasu Creek upstream from the confluence with the Colorado River around 1:30 p.m. Thursday. She was not wearing a life jacket.
Nickerson was hiking along the Havasu River about a half-mile from where it joins the Colorado River when he was caught in the flash flood.
Nickerson’s husband was one of more than 100 people who escaped to safety.
Flooding trapped several hikers in areas upstream and downstream of Beaver Falls, one of a series of normally turquoise waterfalls that draw tourists from around the world to the Havasupai Tribe Reservation.
The area is prone to flooding, turning the iconic waterfall a chocolate colour.
The other hikers reached a village about two miles from the campsite and waited to be evacuated by helicopter.
Governor Katie Hobbs activated the Arizona National Guard, including Blackhawk helicopters, to help evacuate hikers from the village.
About 104 tribal members and tourists near Havasupai Falls, which were isolated by flooding, have been evacuated since Thursday, officials said.
The Havasupai Reservation is one of the most remote places in the continental United States, accessible only by foot, mule or helicopter.
After the bridge was washed away, evacuations began by helicopter and rescue teams spread out among the towering waterfalls.
The coroner’s office and park service are investigating her cause of death.
