The Riverside County Coroner has identified the hiker who died in Joshua Tree National Park while hiking in 120-degree temperatures as Benjamin Whittier, 20, of Yucaipa. Whittier’s companion called for help at 7 p.m. Saturday to say that Whittier was unconscious and in need of immediate assistance in the Turkey Flats area of the park. Rescuers located Whittier and his companion near the base of Pinto Mountain about 11:30 and began CPR, but Benjamin Whittier was pronounced deceased about midnight.
Joshua Tree National Park officials remind residents to hike in the early morning hours and avoid the heat of the day; carry more water than you think you’ll need, and be vigilant in extreme heat conditions.
