A cat miraculously survived a 380-foot fall that killed a couple at Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park, according to an animal sanctuary that took the feline in.
The Best Friends Animal Society said Thursday that the cat was found in a soft-sided black carrier. Though the bag was torn and dirty, the cat appeared to have survived the fall with only minor issues.
Officials estimated the cat is about 12 years old. It was discovered beside the bodies of two people who had fallen from a popular viewpoint in the park earlier in the week.
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office identified the victims as Matthew Nannen, 45, and Bailee Crane, 58. The two were reportedly living out of a U-Haul van and had been traveling, with Florida listed as their last permanent residence.
Tourists spotted their bodies on Tuesday below Inspiration Point. The sheriff’s office said the couple had crossed over safety railings before the fall, though it remains unclear exactly how the incident occurred.
The cat, now named Mirage, was rescued late Tuesday and initially taken to Pawz Dogs, a boarding facility in Panguitch, on April 29. The next day, the sheriff’s office arranged for her to be transferred nearly 70 miles to the Best Friends Animal Society sanctuary in Kanab.
“She was matted and a bit sore, but friendly during her exam,” the sanctuary said. Mirage was eating and drinking on her own. Bloodwork showed no concerning signs, though staff were awaiting X-ray results to rule out internal injuries.
Bryce Canyon, known for its vivid rock formations and deep ravines, attracts over two million visitors annually.
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