A devastating incident at Grand Canyon National Park ended in tragedy when a 27-year-old Colorado man's vehicle plummeted 300 feet over the South Rim.

According to Fox News, park rangers responded to reports of a single-occupant vehicle that had driven over the edge near the South Kaibab Trailhead around 12:40 p.m. on Sunday.

Steven "Drew" Bradley from Federal Heights, Colorado, was identified as the sole occupant of the vehicle. The National Park Service immediately launched a recovery operation to retrieve Bradley's body from the crash site.

Rapid Response and Recovery Efforts Mount

Park rangers acted swiftly upon receiving notification of the incident, coordinating a complex rescue operation. The challenging terrain and severe drop required specialized equipment and expertise to reach the crash site.

A helicopter airlift operation was necessary to recover Bradley's body from its location 300 feet below the rim. The recovery team successfully transported the body to the rim before transferring it to the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office in Arizona.

The National Park Service has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office will work alongside the NPS to determine the exact cause and nature of the tragedy.

Mental Health Resources Highlighted

The National Park Service took the step of including suicide prevention information in their official statement. The agency emphasized the availability of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Park officials have made crisis counseling resources readily available to visitors and staff affected by the incident. The 988 suicide prevention hotline remains active 24/7 for anyone needing immediate support or assistance.

Mental health professionals stress the importance of reaching out for help during difficult times. The tragedy has sparked renewed discussions about mental health awareness and support systems within national parks.

Safety Measures Under Review

The incident has prompted park officials to evaluate existing safety protocols near the rim areas. The South Kaibab Trailhead, where the incident occurred, is a popular tourist destination known for its spectacular views.

Park management is conducting a comprehensive review of barriers and warning systems in place along the rim. Safety experts are assessing whether additional measures could prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Grand Canyon National Park administration continues to emphasize visitor safety guidelines. Regular safety audits and visitor education programs remain crucial components of the park's operation.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

Incidents like this serve as stark reminders of safety concerns and the unpredictability of the natural environment. While not all the facts about this case are yet known, there are several key takeaways for visitors to national parks and similar remote areas.

1. Stay aware of your surroundings. Grand Canyon National Park includes areas without guardrails or physical barriers. Drivers should remain cautious and avoid getting too close to the edge, especially in areas near trailheads or parking lots.

2. Park responsibly and avoid distractions. Operating a vehicle in high-traffic or rugged environments, such as those near hiking trails, requires full attention. Visitors should remain alert, avoid distractions, and follow all posted park regulations and speed limits.

3. Support mental health awareness. While it's unclear what led to this particular event, authorities provided mental health resources to the public as a precaution. It's vital to remember that mental health challenges can affect anyone, and support is always available. We must avoid speculating or assigning blame, as tragedies like this involve complex personal and situational factors.

Why this story matters

This case underscores the dangers that can arise in even the most scenic and well-visited national parks. It highlights the need for public awareness about both physical safety and mental health support while exploring remote destinations. By covering this story, we help inform readers about risks in national parks and encourage thoughtful, responsible recreation. It also serves to honor the memory of the victim and support transparency in the ongoing investigation.

Conclusion

On Sept. 7, 2025, 27-year-old Steven "Drew" Bradley of Colorado died after his car went over the edge near the South Kaibab Trailhead in Grand Canyon National Park. Authorities responded shortly after 12:40 p.m. and recovered his body via helicopter approximately 300 feet below the South Rim. The case remains under investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner, with mental health resources made available to the public.