A tragic and chilling incident unfolded at Yellowstone National Park when a man, in an attempt to engage in the risky activity known as ‘hot potting,’ accidentally fell into one of the park’s scalding hot springs. Within just 24 hours, his body had completely dissolved, leaving behind no remains.
Yellowstone National Park, which spans across Wyoming and extends into parts of Montana and Idaho, is a popular destination that attracts millions of visitors annually. The breathtaking geothermal landscapes and geysers draw people from all over the world, but the park is not without its dangers. Over the years, several fatal accidents have occurred due to its extreme geothermal activity, and this particular tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the risks associated with venturing beyond designated areas.
Colin Scott, a 23-year-old from Portland, Oregon, had been visiting the national park with his sister in June 2016. The siblings were reportedly exploring a restricted zone within the park—an area considered extremely dangerous due to its proximity to the Yellowstone caldera, often referred to as a ‘supervolcano.’ Despite the numerous warning signs instructing visitors to remain on designated boardwalks, the duo ventured off-path in search of a suitable spot for ‘hot potting.’
This activity, which involves bathing in natural hot springs, can be incredibly hazardous due to the unpredictable temperatures of the geothermal pools. While some springs may be warm and safe for soaking, others reach boiling temperatures, often exceeding 199 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius). The difference is not always visually apparent, making it a deceptive and potentially deadly endeavor.
Colin’s tragic fall was captured on a smartphone, which his sister had been using to document their journey. According to the official report, the footage recorded the exact moment he lost his footing and plunged into the boiling water. In sheer panic, his sister attempted to help him, but with no phone signal in the remote location, she was forced to sprint to a nearby museum to seek assistance. By the time emergency responders arrived, it was already too late.
Upon reaching the scene, park officials discovered Colin’s head, upper torso, and hands still visible in the steaming, azure-colored pool. The extreme heat and acidic nature of the water had already begun breaking down his body tissue. A report from U.S. Park Ranger Phil Strehle confirmed that due to the lack of visible movement, widespread thermal burns, and the high temperatures involved, Colin was presumed deceased upon discovery.
Complicating the recovery efforts was the unstable nature of the thermal area and an approaching lightning storm, making it impossible for rescuers to safely retrieve the body. When they returned the following morning, the only things left were Colin’s wallet and flip-flops—his body had entirely dissolved overnight. According to Deputy Chief Ranger Lorant Veress, the natural geothermal processes had rapidly reduced his remains, leaving nothing behind to recover.
Park spokesperson Charissa Reid later confirmed that aside from a few personal belongings, there were no physical remains left. Out of respect for the Scott family, authorities refrained from releasing any footage of the incident or providing specific details about its contents.
Following the tragedy, Yellowstone Park Superintendent Dan Wenk issued a heartfelt statement, extending condolences to the Scott family while reinforcing the importance of adhering to safety regulations. He emphasized that this devastating incident serves as a grim warning for visitors to stay on designated pathways and respect the park’s natural hazards.
Yellowstone’s hot springs, while mesmerizing, hold immense dangers beneath their serene surfaces. This tragedy is a harrowing testament to the unforgiving nature of the park’s geothermal landscape and the catastrophic consequences of disregarding safety precautions.