Date: July 16, 2009
Contact: Shannan Marcak, 928-638-7958
Grand Canyon, Ariz. – Rangers in Grand Canyon National Park are investigating the possible abduction of a woman from a residential area within the park.
At approximately 7:50 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a white female being pushed into the trunk of a white passenger car. The incident was reported to have occurred in the vicinity of the Mohave Apartments, a residential area in Grand Canyon Village that is not frequented by park visitors.
Rangers immediately set up a containment area, establishing check points at all of the major access and egress points to the village, and canvassed the area where the abduction was reported to have occurred. Additionally, a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) was distributed to local law enforcement agencies and rangers began searching for the vehicle in Grand Canyon Village and in the community of Tusayan immediately outside the nearest entrance station. Although rangers searched throughout the night, the vehicle was not located.
According to Grand Canyon National Park Deputy Superintendent Palma Wilson, “The park is investigating all possible scenarios associated with this incident and horseplay has not been ruled out. The safety of park visitors and residents continues to be a primary concern during this investigation.”
Investigators are asking anybody who believes they might have information about this incident to call 928-638-7805. Reports can be made anonymously if that is the caller’s preference.
Media inquiries should be directed to Public Affairs Specialist Shannan Marcak at 928-638-7958 or at e-mail us.
-NPS-
