BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Utah — A 12-year-old cat named Mirage is recovering after surviving a 380-foot fall in Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park, where two hikers tragically lost their lives.
On April 29, rescuers discovered Mirage inside a damaged carrier near the bodies of a man and woman who had fallen from Inspiration Point, a popular overlook in the park. The feline, the only survivor of the incident, was transported to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, where she is receiving medical care.
The Tragic Incident
According to the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, tourists spotted the victims—identified as 45-year-old Matthew Nannen and 58-year-old Bailee Crane—at the base of the canyon on April 30. Investigators said the couple had crossed a safety railing before the fall, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Nannen and Crane, who had last lived in Florida, were reportedly traveling in a U-Haul van and had spent time in Arizona before the accident.
A Miraculous Survival
Mirage was found beside the couple in a torn, soft-sided carrier. Rescuers initially took her to Pawz Dogs boarding facility in Panguitch before transferring her to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest no-kill sanctuary in the world.
Despite the harrowing ordeal, veterinarians found Mirage in relatively good condition.
“She was matted and a bit sore but friendly during her exam, eating and drinking on her own,” a Best Friends spokesperson told PEOPLE. X-rays revealed fractured ribs and two chipped teeth, but her bloodwork was normal.
“Despite surviving a 400-foot fall, this remarkable little cat never lost her gentle spirit,” the sanctuary said. “She’s a living miracle—still purring, still trusting, like nothing ever happened.”
Recovery and Future
Mirage is not yet available for adoption as she continues to heal. Meanwhile, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary cares for over 1,600 rescue animals, many of whom are seeking permanent homes.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the fatal fall.
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