The body of a 26-year-old Indian IT professional who drowned in Montana’s Glacier National Park last month has been recovered by park rangers. Siddhant Vitthal Patil, who hailed from Maharashtra and was living and working in California, was on vacation with friends when the tragic incident occurred on July 6th. While hiking above a gorge on Avalanche Lake Trail, Patil fell from a large rock into Avalanche Creek.
Witnesses reported seeing Patil go underwater and resurface before being swept away by the current into the gorge. Park rangers launched a search effort but were initially hampered by the depth and whitewater conditions of the creek. After weeks of searching, rangers were able to reach larger portions of the gorge as the water level dropped. However, the deepest and most dangerous areas remained inaccessible.
On Saturday morning, visitors alerted rangers to a body spotted in the creek. Park rangers recovered the body, along with clothing and gear similar to what Patil was wearing at the time of the incident. The Flathead County coroner is currently working to confirm the identity through DNA or dental records.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers present in Glacier National Park, even for experienced hikers. The park’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions require proper preparedness and caution. As the park attracts millions of visitors each year, it’s essential to remain aware of the potential risks and follow safety guidelines.
