Pune: Body of Indian Tech Professional Siddhant Vitthal Patil Recovered from Avalanche Creek

Pune, 5th August 2024: The body of 26-year-old Siddhant Vitthal Patil, an Indian tech professional who drowned after falling into Avalanche Creek on July 6, has been recovered.

Patil, a native of Jalgaon who lived in Pimple Nilakh, was based in San Jose, California. He had been hiking with a group of seven friends on the Avalanche Lake Trail when he deviated from the path and fell into the creek from a rock.

According to Glacier National Park officials, Patil was briefly seen resurfacing before being swept away by the current into a gorge. The recovery was prompted by a report from a visitor who spotted a body in the creek below the gorge. The recovered clothing and gear matched Patil’s description. The Flathead County coroner is now working to confirm the identity through DNA and dental records.

Officials recounted that Patil had ventured off the trail and fell from the rock into the creek, though it remains unclear whether he slipped or lost his balance. Witnesses reported seeing him fall, briefly resurface, and then be carried away by the current.

The search was hampered by submerged obstacles like fallen trees and rocks, complicating efforts due to the depth of the water and challenging whitewater conditions. As water levels dropped, rangers utilized long poles and drones to continue their search. The Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Trail were temporarily closed during the recovery operation but were reopened later in the afternoon.

Patil’s family has expressed their gratitude for the support received during this difficult time. His uncle, Pritesh Chaudhari, thanked the rangers and Indian American community leader Prem Bhandari for their assistance. “We were informed by the US ranger officials that Siddhant’s body was found. As we process this grief, we extend our thanks to the rangers for their tireless search. Special thanks to Prem Bhandari, who has been in constant touch with us and providing support. We have authorized him to arrange for Siddhant’s remains to be sent to Pune and handle the necessary formalities,” Chaudhari said.

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, also offered his condolences. In a post on X, he wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Siddhant Vitthal Patil, a young tech professional who went missing while hiking at Avalanche Creek in California. Despite our relentless efforts with the MEA authorities to expedite the search, we have lost him. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. May they find strength in this difficult time. ॐ शांति.”