Leticia A. Castillo, Albuquerque, New Mexico – The tragic discovery of Leticia A. Castillo’s body has sent waves of grief through her community and beyond. On Tuesday, August 6, National Park Service personnel located her body approximately 150 feet below the rim of Twin Overlooks along Desert View Drive, Grand Canyon National Park. Castillo, 20, had been missing since July 31, prompting a multi-day search and rescue operation.
The Grand Canyon Search and Rescue team undertook the recovery amidst challenging weather conditions and treacherous terrain. Despite the hazards, the team successfully recovered Castillo’s body, which was then transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office for identification.
The news has evoked an outpouring of sympathy and gratitude on social media. Donna M. Smith expressed her mixed emotions: "Sad but thankful found and no other losses!" Similarly, Jane White Pillatzke shared her condolences and appreciation: "RIP to the lady and prayers for her family and friends and thank you endlessly to the search and rescue crew, without whom families would never have some form of closure."
Sherry Seals also acknowledged the efforts of the search team: "Thank you to the rescue team for your putting yourself in harm’s way to bring a loved one home. Prayers going out the family…" John Conlow echoed this sentiment: "Thank you for your service in the face of difficult and sad circumstances."
Peggy Clancy Stenglein lamented the loss of such a young life: "Rest easy Leticia, you were just a baby. My prayers are with your family." Wanda Graves and Daizy Mae both offered their gratitude to the rescue personnel, emphasizing the importance of their work.
Other community members, like Anne Bothwell Mabe and Sarah Ruby Tassi, extended their deepest sympathies to Castillo’s family and praised the rescue team for their relentless efforts. Molly Martian added, "Thank you to the rescue personnel for giving the family closure. So sorry for their loss."
The search and rescue operations at the Grand Canyon have been particularly demanding in recent weeks, with Castillo’s recovery marking the third technical rescue since July 31. The team’s dedication and bravery in such perilous conditions highlight the critical role they play in bringing resolution to families during times of profound loss.
As the community mourns the loss of Leticia A. Castillo, their collective gratitude for the search and rescue team’s unwavering commitment stands out as a testament to the power of unity and support in the face of tragedy.