Brad Utegaard missing person poster
ALAMOGORDO, NM (WSAU) — A Wausau man was found dead in a New Mexico park known for dangerous hiking conditions.
The State Police say they found the body of Brad Utegaard in the White Sands National Park, about two miles off of a hiking trail. They say he had his backpack and water bottles with him, and foul play is not suspected.
Utegaard’s family says he was on a cross-country trip by himself when he disappeared over the weekend. Multiple agencies were called in to help in the search including state and federal officers along with a military helicopter.
His vehicle had been parked at the Alkali Flats Trail for about two days before the search began.
Parks officials have long warned about the dangers of hiking in the area, which is prone to extreme temperatures and offers no shade. They recommend hikers bring at least a gallon of water with them if they are going to hike the trail.
At least one other person has died hiking the trail in the last year.
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