Authorities say no charges are anticipated after a 16-year-old Boy Scout died while on a troop hiking trip in Picacho Peak State Park last weekend.
Pinal County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Navideh Forghani said Friday that investigators looking into the death at Picacho Peak State Park between Phoenix and Tucson last Saturday afternoon don't expect to file a criminal case.
Forghani said there were two adults leading a small group of scouts on a hike at the park along the I-10 freeway that features distinctive 1,500-foot Picacho Peak. The park has several hiking trails that offer spectacular views.
Sheriff's officials say the hikers had water when they left, but ran out at the top of a mountain. The boy showed signs of extreme dehydration and died on the way down.
The boy was part of the Boy Scouts of America Grand Canyon Council in the Phoenix area, according to Scout Executive Andy Price.
“This is a very difficult time for our Scouting family. We are deeply saddened by the death of one of our youth members. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family, and we will support them in any way that we can. Please join us in keeping his family and friends everywhere in your thoughts and prayers,” Price said in an emailed statement.
Hiking Safety Tips
9 hiking tips to help keep you safe in Tucson weather
Bring the essentials
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Hikers start up the Finger Rock Canyon Trail north of Tucson. There’s no need to hike the entire route.
Ten essential items to carry on a hike:
- Navigation: map, compass, GPS
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, long sleeves
- Insulation: extra clothing such as jacket, fleece
- Illumination: headlamp, flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Fire: matches, lighter
- Repair kit and tools: multi-tool, whistle, signal mirror
- Nutrition: extra food
- Hydration: extra water
- Emergency shelter: large plastic bag, space blanket
In an emergency, call 911
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A sign at the entrance to the Pima Canyon Trail warns hikers of dangers after the Bighorn Fire damages hiking areas.
In the event of an emergency, call 911 or send someone to get help.
Check your water
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The Adams family, from Denver, stops for a water break along the Bear Canyon Trail at Sabino Canyon.
Bringing water with you should be a given. But it's important to turn around before half of your water is gone.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department recommends bringing along around one liter of water for each hour you'll be hiking.
Communicate
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Groups of people walk at Sabino Canyon Recreation Area in Tucson, Ariz., on September 21, 2020.
It's always important to communicate with your friends and family. Tell a responsible person where you are hiking and when you expect to be back.
Do not hike alone
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In 2019, Saguaro National Park attracted more than 1 million visitors for the first time in the park’s history.
It's always best to hike with other people. Plus, it's more fun to venture into hiking trails when you have friends or family with you.
Bring your phone
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Judy Scharringhausen takes a picture of a patch of greenery along the Bear Canyon trail at Sabino Canyon Recreational Area, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., in Tucson, Ariz. on July 26th, 2021.
Take a fully charged cell phone with you. Turn your phone off or place it in airplane mode to save its battery life. You never know when you'll need it.
Your cell phone may not work in the back country. You may have to move to a higher or more open location to place a call.
Check the weather beforehand
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Several bolts strike in the foothills of the southern Rincon Mountains as an intense monsoon cell rolls into Vail, Ariz., July 30, 2021.
Plan your hike so you are not hiking during the hottest part of the day or when monsoon storms are likely to cause heavy rains, lightning, and flooding. Always check the day's weather before leaving for your hike.
Know your limits
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Hikers find cooler temperatures in forests of the Catalina Mountains than in desert areas.
Hike within your ability. Know what's within reasonable distance or elevation for you.
Stay away from wildlife
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A pair of deer watch from the cover of tall grasses as a hiker passes nearby in Madera Canyon south of Tucson.
While on a hike, you're bound to see some animals.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department recommends keeping a safe distance from desert wildlife.
