Body of Indian man, drowned in US national park, found after month-long search

The body of an Indian national, presumed drowned in Glacier National Park in the US’s Montana, was found after nearly a month-long search by Park Rangers.

Maharashtra-born Siddhant Patil, who was working in California, went hiking above a gorge on Avalanche Lake Trail on July 6. He fell into Avalanche Creek while standing on a large rock.

Patil’s friends saw him go underwater and resurface before being swept into the gorge by the current.

Siddhant’s uncle, Pritesh Chaudhari, confirmed that US ranger officials had informed them of Siddhant’s body being found, reported news agency ANI.

“After weeks of searching, rangers at Glacier National Park believe they have recovered the body of 26-year-old Siddhant from India today. Siddhant fell into Avalanche Creek on July 6, 2024, and drowned,” Glacier National Park officials said in a statement.

Park Rangers suspected the body was trapped underwater by submerged obstacles, limiting search efforts, according to NBC Montana.

“Clothing and gear similar to what Siddhant was reportedly wearing at the time of the incident were also recovered. Around 10:30 am on Saturday, a park visitor reported seeing a body in Avalanche Creek below the gorge. Rangers immediately began recovery efforts. The Flathead County coroner is working to confirm the identity through DNA or dental records,” the officials said, as quoted by ANI.

The Maharashtra government had earlier requested intervention from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to urge US authorities to locate Siddhant’s body.

The search has now ended with the discovery of Patil’s body.