New Jersey Man Missing in Grand Canyon Wildfire
Thomas Daniel Gibbs, a 35-year-old from Freehold, New Jersey, has been missing for over a week as a massive wildfire engulfs the Grand Canyon National Park. Last heard from on July 22, Gibbs was reported missing by his family on July 28. The National Park Service has been actively searching for him, focusing efforts around the Grandview Trail and Horseshoe Mesa area where he was last believed to be. Gibbs is described as a White male, six-foot-one, with brown hair and eyes.
Mega-Fire Rages Across Grand Canyon
The Dragon Bravo Fire, declared a “mega-fire” by the U.S. Forest Service on July 31, has burned over 100,000 acres along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This makes it the largest fire currently burning in the continental U.S. and one of Arizona’s top ten largest recorded fires. The fire’s rapid spread was exacerbated by high winds and dry conditions, leading to a significant drop in containment efforts.
Impact of Pyrocumulus Clouds
The intense heat from the fire has generated towering pyrocumulus clouds, which have created their own weather systems. These clouds can produce erratic winds that complicate firefighting efforts. Fire information officer Lisa Jennings noted that these clouds have been visible for several days, posing additional challenges to ground crews.
Destruction and Recovery Efforts
The Dragon Bravo Fire has destroyed approximately 70 structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and North Rim Visitor Center. The North Rim is closed for the rest of the 2025 season due to extensive damage. Emergency stabilization efforts are underway to protect remaining infrastructure, with plans for recovery and rebuilding in progress.
Public Safety and Ongoing Search
Park rangers urge anyone who was in the area around July 22 to report any sightings or information about Gibbs to the NPS Investigative Services Branch. The search continues amid challenging conditions as officials work to ensure public safety and manage the ongoing wildfire crisis.