Second Heat-Related Death in Death Valley

A 57-year-old man, Peter Hayes Robino from Los Angeles County, died from heat exposure after a hike in Death Valley National Park, marking the second heat-related fatality in the area this summer. On August 1, temperatures soared to 119 degrees Fahrenheit, with the park experiencing highs of up to 130 degrees this year. Robino had completed a one-mile walk on the Natural Bridge Trail, which is known for its rocky terrain, when he began to show signs of distress. Witnesses reported that Robino stumbled after finishing his hike and declined assistance, exhibiting confusion. Shortly thereafter, he drove his vehicle off a 20-foot embankment at a parking lot around 3:50 p.m. Despite the severity of the crash, where airbags deployed, he managed to exit the car and was taken to a shaded area by bystanders. First responders arrived shortly after, but despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at 4:42 p.m. An autopsy revealed that Robino died from hyperthermia, a condition characterized by symptoms such as confusion and lack of coordination. Superintendent Mike Reynolds expressed condolences to Robino's family, emphasizing the dangers of extreme heat. This incident follows another heat-related death in July and several other heat illnesses reported in the park, prompting park rangers to issue warnings for visitors to stay hydrated and avoid hiking during peak temperatures.