Full Breakdown
Body of Missing Arizona State University Student Identified at Grand Canyon
5/13/2026, 5:32:30 AM
Discovery of Sandarsh Krishna’s Remains
On May 9, National Park Service (NPS) personnel recovered a body near the Verkamp’s Visitor Center on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. The Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the remains as 26-year-old Sandarsh Krishna, an Arizona State University (ASU) graduate student. Authorities have not released a cause of death, and the case remains under investigation.
Background & Travel Plans
Krishna moved from India in 2024 to pursue a master’s in computer science at ASU. On April 27 he told family he would stop at the South Rim before traveling to Las Vegas and expected to return to Tempe for final exams and his graduation on May 9. The Grand Canyon is noted for a high fatality rate, with most deaths attributed to heat-related illness and limited cell service.
Timeline of Key Events
- April 27 – Last contact; Krishna reports a stop at the South Rim.
- April 28 – Reported missing; a backpack believed to be his is turned in by a hiker.
- May 9 – Body located near Verkamp’s Visitor Center, about 250 feet below the rim.
- May 12 – NPS issues a news release confirming identification and ongoing investigation.
Search Operations and Data
More than 30 search-and-rescue personnel were deployed, with some reports citing over 50 team members. Efforts included trail scanning, walk-down routes, technical rope insertions, aerial reconnaissance flights, drones, helicopters, and thermal imaging. Cell-tower data placed Krishna’s phone within a four-mile stretch between Mojave Point and Pima Point on the South Rim.
Official Statements & Responses
The NPS stated that the body was found near the Verkamp’s Visitor Center, identified by the medical examiner, and that the cause of death is unknown. The agency emphasized that the investigation remains active and reiterated safety recommendations: rest in shade, stay hydrated, and apply sunscreen throughout the day.
Family Perspectives and Criticism
Krishna’s relatives expressed frustration over the lack of details regarding his death, emphasizing a need for “proper closure.” They highlighted the emotional toll of the uncertainty and called for transparent communication from authorities.
On-the-Ground Reports
A park visitor discovered Krishna’s backpack on the morning of April 28 and delivered it to staff at Bright Angel Lodge, located less than half a mile from the eventual recovery site. Search crews combed the surrounding canyon terrain, employing drones and aerial flights to locate the remains.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the number of personnel involved (30 vs. 50+). Descriptions of the body’s location vary between “near the Visitor Center” and “about 250 feet below the rim.” The cause of death remains undisclosed, leaving a critical factual gap.
Verbatim Quotes
- “'We don't want to believe he's hurt,' Adarsh told KPNX, adding, 'We need a proper closure.” Adarsh told KPNX, adding, “We need a proper closure. We don't know what exactly happened to him.” — Adarsh, family member
- “He’s kindhearted. He’s a genius. He’s great in math. He plays chess. He has a black belt in karate,” — Dr. Pooja Shivananjappa, sister-in-law
- “The incident remains under investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office,” — Grand Canyon communications office
What’s Next
The NPS and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office will continue forensic analysis to determine the cause of death. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses, and officials may review safety protocols for visitors traveling the South Rim.
