The body of Jetal Sutariya Agnihotri, a University of Arizona graduate student, was found on Tuesday, Aug. 23 at Zion National Park.
Agnihotri was uncovered in the Virgin River near the Court of the Patriarchs in Utah after being reported missing over the weekend.
As per the UA’s Department of Hydrology & Atmospheric Sciences, Agnihotri was a graduate student. She was hiking alongside some UA friends in the Narrows, a popular part of Zion.
Flash floods due to monsoon season struck the park and rushing water swept several hikers off of their feet, according to a Zion press release. Once water levels receded, all of the hikers were found except for Agnihotri.
Over 170 people helped search for Agnihotri during the three days she was missing.
Between water trained first responders, search dogs and other organizations including the U.S. Forest Service, the search party was able to locate Agnihotri. Park rangers closely monitored the weather amidst the search.
“Our deepest sympathy goes out to the friends and family of Jetal Agnihotri,” said Jeff Bradybaugh, Zion National Park superintendent.
More updates to follow.
Mental health resources available:
If you have been impacted by this situation and are seeking help, you can contact UA Campus Health by calling 520-621-9202 or find out how to set up an appointment on their website at health.arizona.edu.
Additionally, UA Counseling & Psychological Services has a variety of different resources intended to help students, including a “Mental Health & Wellness Tools” webpage. CAPS also has drop-in hours over Zoom Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can find this and more at caps.arizona.edu or contact CAPS directly through its 24/7 number 520-621-3334.
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