College Student, 20, Falls 400 Feet To His Death At The Grand Canyon

A 20-year-old college student fell to his death while hiking in Grand Canyon National Park on Wednesday (July 31). The National Park Service said that Abel Joseph Meji was approximately one-quarter-mile west of the Pipe Creek Overlook when he lost his balance and plunged 400 feet off a cliff.

Park rangers set up a high-angle technical rescue system so they could recover Meji's body. It is unclear what caused him to fall.

"An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office. No additional information is available at this time," the National Park Service said in a statement .

Meji attended Indiana Bible College in Indianapolis.

"He was known for his warm smile and gentle spirit, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him," the school wrote on Facebook . "Let us all join together in prayer for the entire Mejia family during this difficult time. May God bring comfort and peace to all who are grieving."