Rescue teams are actively searching the Grand Canyon for hikers after a flash flood resulted in fatalities and missing persons. National Park Service crews evacuated numerous individuals by helicopter while searching the Kaibab Trail and surrounding Colorado River areas.
The two individuals identified from the flash flood were photographed during their trip before the incident.
Families of John Giusti, a 46-year-old chiropractor, and Brent Rosenkranz, a 42-year-old martial artist, confirmed the identification of the victims. Timothy Smith, a third individual who joined them remains missing.
The men, associated with Granbury, Texas, planned a trip encompassing hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring.
The flash flood occurred Saturday, Aug. 29, along Bright Angel Creek near Phantom Ranch. The area includes historic dormitories, a canteen, and a popular campground for river rafters and Grand Canyon hikers.
Incident Commander Dave Black shared details on the rescue operations employing night vision and other equipment during the search. Saturday saw 45 individuals rescued, with 37 evacuated the following day.
Efforts to identify missing persons involved checking license plates and park permits.
Hiker Daniel Evans recounted the rain intensifying before the 30-minute deluge. Previously advised by rangers about safety, he quickly vacated once notified of rising danger.
Family statements reflected on the victims. Janet Giusti described her late husband as energetic, a devoted father, and passionate about his interests.
Rosenkranz shared updates online, expressing enthusiasm over the physical challenges of the hike, before it turned tragic.