Man dies at White Sands National Park over the July 4th weekend

EL PASO, Texas - Search and rescue teams located the body of a man off a trail at White Sands National Park on July 6 just after 11 a.m.

Earlier, park rangers had found an empty vehicle and began a search of the area.

Members of the U.S. Army, Holloman Air Force Base, U.S. Airforce, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, New Mexico State Police, and New Mexico Search and Rescue all assisted in the search.

New Mexico State Police continues to investigate the death.

Park rangers remind visitors to prepare for hiking along the dunes, especially during the extreme summer months where temperatures can severely affect some people.

Rangers recommend going during the early morning or early evening when temperatures are cooler. Hikers should bring at least a gallon of water per person, high-energy snacks, and know their physical limitations.

Visitors should wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and loose-fitting clothes with long sleeves and long pants to protect skin from the sun.

Let someone know your hiking plan in case you need help, and if you get lost, stop and remain at your location and call 911.