“An elevator plan was tried, but due to the extreme location, the two team members who fell could not reach Lofgren and Henkel,” the sheriff said.
When rescuers were able to reach the couple on Friday, they found Lofgren dead. Henkel was alive and flown for medical treatment.
“It was a very difficult operation in a very unforgiving geographical area of Inyo County. I sincerely hope for healing and recovery for all involved,” said Jeff Hollowell, Sheriff of Inyo County.
Lofgren and Henkel were reported missing on April 6 after failing to return from their camping trip on April 4.
“On April 7, the entire Death Valley Highway 190, from Death Valley Junction to Lone Pine, was ridden and every monument and attraction to the trail was inspected. DVPN helped track every site listed on Lofgren’s itinerary from abroad. go.”
The couple’s missing Subaru car was found Thursday morning with a remark that led officials to their location in the Willow Creek area of Death Valley.
According to the sheriff, the note reads: “Two flat tires, which are on their way to Mormon Point, have three days’ supply of water.”
An investigation is underway to determine the cause and manner of Lofgren’s death.
Arizona Democratic Representative Raúl Grijalva sent his condolences Friday.