Warning: This article contains graphic images and video which some readers may find distressing.
A simulation of what may've occurred when an Oregon man fell into a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park acts as a stark warning.
On June 7, 2016, 23-year-old Colin Scott was walking in Yellowstone National Park with his sister when he 'slipped' into one of the hot springs.
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The pair were reportedly walking off Norris Geyser Basin's boardwalk when Colin fell into one of the park's hot springs and 'did not get out,' according to the National Park's Service report, as per The Guardian.
Colin's sister, Sable, had no cellphone service and so was forced to leave her brother and go for help at a nearby museum.
Alas, by the time she returned and park officials arrived at the scene, Colin was only visible from the chest upwards, his hands also sticking out of the spring.
Officials returned the next day but Colin's body had disappeared completely. A 9 June report by US park ranger Phil Strehle detailed: "Due to the report of the individual not previously visible, a lack of movement, suspected extreme temperatures, and indications of several thermal burns, the subject was determined to be deceased."
The report resolved the 'consensus among the rescue/recovery team [...] was that the extreme heat of the hot spring, coupled with its acidic nature, dissolved the remains' and a YouTube account has since shared a simulation of what this could've looked like.
YouTuber Zack D Films shared the simulation on August 20 earlier this year showing a representation of what may've happened when Colin fell in the hot spring.
A stark warning to those who venture too close to hot springs in the national park, the video explains: "The hot water caused severe burns as soon as he fell in but the water also contains acid which immediately began to eat away at his skin.
"After five minutes the heat would have caused him to go into shock."
The video claims the water was 'too hot' to reach Colin's body, however, the official report stated the area was too 'volatile' and there was an incoming lightening storm, which is why his body couldn't be recovered right away.
When he was then found, the video resolves: "The acid and heat had completely caused his body to dissolve leaving nothing but his wallet and his shoes."
Yellowstone's website notes: "Hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature."
Park Superintendent Dan Wenk said in the statement at the time: "We extend our sympathy to the Scott family. This tragic event must remind all of us to follow the regulations and stay on boardwalks when visiting Yellowstone’s geyser basins."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.
Topics: Health, Science, Social Media, US News, YouTube
Poppy Bilderbeck