A van and attached trailer were destroyed by a fire on State Route 190 inside Death Valley National Park on June 20th, 2026, though all six occupants escaped without major injuries.
The group was traveling westbound up Towne Pass when the driver noticed the vehicle overheating and pulled over. Flames and smoke were visible coming from the engine compartment at approximately 5:20pm. The occupants attempted to extinguish the fire using two on-board fire extinguishers but were unable to stop it.
Personnel from the National Park Service, California Highway Patrol, and the Beatty Volunteer Fire Department responded with temperatures around 108 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite their efforts, both the van and trailer were a complete loss.
The NPS noted that the occupants made a sound decision by carrying fire extinguishers, even though the devices ultimately proved insufficient in this case.
Death Valley Safety Tips:
Vehicle safety is critical on the park’s long, winding roads. Most deaths in Death Valley result from single-vehicle rollover accidents. Drivers should observe posted speed limits, shift to low gear on steep downhill grades, and always wear a seatbelt.
Heat is a constant threat, with summer temperatures reaching 130° F. The NPS advises visitors to drink at least one gallon of water per day, avoid hiking in lower elevations during peak heat, and monitor themselves for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Visitors should also check park alerts and road conditions before heading out and consult with rangers at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, open daily from 8am to 5pm.