A Utah teenager died after getting trapped whereas digging a tunnel in a sand dune, state officers stated.
Ian Spendlove, 13, was declared useless on Sunday, someday after the tunnel he was digging at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Kanab unexpectedly collapsed as he was inside, Utah State Parks officers stated Monday.
Spendlove, of Santa Clara, was recovered about 25 minutes later beneath 6 1/2 ft of sand.
Family who noticed the collapse had instantly began digging to rescue the teenager. Park rangers and Kane County deputies then arrived on the scene with shovels to find him, state park officers stated.
The rescued boy was rushed to a hospital by helicopter after paramedics gave him CPR and decided he had a pulse.
“Sadly, on Sunday, Spendlove had not regained mind exercise and was declared useless,” park officers stated in an announcement. “The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to Ian Spendlove’s family and friends impacted by this tragedy.”
An investigation into the incident is ongoing. The massive dunes on the park — estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000 years outdated — are created by the erosion of coral pink Navajo sandstone, in line with its web site.
The entire dunes are open for climbing and “simply taking part in within the sand,” whereas some are widespread with ATV riders, park officers stated.
“With the recreation season now underway, Utah State Parks wish to remind everybody that whereas Utah’s outside are lovely locations to discover, security must be a prime precedence,” officers stated in Monday’s assertion.
Guests ought to hike or discover with a companion and put on life jackets and helmets the place acceptable, in addition to letting others know once they anticipate to return, Utah State Parks stated.
“Relaxation in peace Ian, the opposite two amigos are lacking you deeply,” a Fb put up from Monday reads. “Prayers for the Spendlove household.”
A girl who recognized herself as Ian’s aunt declined to remark when reached early Tuesday by The Submit.
