76-year-old hiker passes away in Canyonlands National Park

MOAB, Utah (ABC4) — A 76-year-old who was hiking in Canyonlands National Park passed away on September 17.

According to the National Park Service, their rangers responded to a call of CPR in progress in the late afternoon on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. A 76-year-old woman, identified as Lois Marcasciano from Pittsgrove, New Jersey had collapsed while hiking on the Mesa Arch Trail.

Bystanders reportedly administered care. Additionally, first responders from San Juan County Sheriff’s Department, Grand County EMS, and Classic Air Medical arrived at the scene and attempted to provide first aid.

Unfortunately, resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, and Marcasciano passed away and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office and the National Park Service are currently investigating this incident. At this time, they have not identified the cause of Marcasciano’s death.

Heat-related Illness

One of the biggest contributing factors to becoming injured while hiking is heat-related illness. The National Park Service says that “Heat-related illnesses range from treatable symptoms, like heat rash and sunburns, to heat stroke which can lead to death if not treated quickly.”

If you are experiencing a heat-related illness, NPS recommends the following:

• Stop what you are doing
• Move to a cool, shaded area
• Call 9-1-1 or flag down a ranger for help
• Follow CDC recommendations for addressing Heat-Related Illnesses. Drink water if you are experiencing heat exhaustion while waiting for emergency responders.
• Cool down by splashing or soaking yourself with water, if available, and fanning vigorously

Participating in strenuous activities like hiking in hot weather can increase one’s risk of heat-related illnesses. Additionally, NPS notes that age can be a contributing factor, in addition to being dehydrated.