A 20-year-old American student was found dead on Table Mountain in Cape Town after going missing during a hike over the weekend.
South African authorities confirmed the discovery of the body of Brook Cheuvront on Monday, though the exact circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.
American Student Found Dead On Table Mountain
Brook, who hails from North Carolina, was reported missing on Saturday when friends lost contact with her after the tracking app she was using abruptly stopped updating. Alarmed by the sudden silence, her friends alerted local authorities, leading to an extensive search operation.
Rangers from South African National Parks (SANParks), wilderness search and rescue teams, and local trail runners were mobilised in the search, which stretched late into Saturday evening.
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However, as night fell, dangerous conditions on the mountain forced teams to suspend the operation. The search resumed early Sunday morning, and with the help of an aircraft, Cheuvront’s body was located.
American Student Found Dead After Going Missing on Table Mountain Hike in Cape Town [Image: Brook Cheuvront/Instagram/SA ToursFodors Travel Guide]
JP Louw, a spokesperson for SANParks, confirmed that an inquest has been opened to investigate the cause of death.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event and offer our condolences to her family and friends,” he stated.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the incident.
Cheuvront’s disappearance has sparked renewed warnings from South African officials, who are urging hikers to exercise extreme caution when exploring the challenging terrain of Table Mountain. They recommend hiking in groups of at least four people and discourage solo hikes, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
The Dangerous Wilderness
Table Mountain is a popular destination for hikers, offering breathtaking views of Cape Town, but its rugged trails can be dangerous, particularly in adverse weather conditions or when hikers stray off established paths.
The weather on Table Mountain can change rapidly. Sudden mists, strong winds, and temperature drops are common, making navigation difficult and increasing the risk of hypothermia.
The trails on Table Mountain vary in difficulty. Some paths are steep, rocky, and uneven, leading to slips, falls, and injuries. It’s essential to wear sturdy footwear and be cautious.