Denver man found dead at bottom of national park canyon beneath steep drop-offs

Authorities discovered the body of John N. Countryman, 57, of Denver, on the floor of Gunnison National Park’s Black Canyon. His abandoned vehicle was found near the South Rim, prompting a search that located human remains via drone. The cause and manner of death are currently under investigation.

• The body of John N. Countryman, 57, of Denver, was found in Gunnison National Park’s Black Canyon.
• An abandoned vehicle near mile marker 10 along the South Rim alerted authorities.
• A drone team located human remains on the canyon floor after an initial search was hampered by diminishing daylight.
• The rugged terrain of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park presents challenges for search and rescue.
• The cause and manner of death are under investigation.