A hiker has died after an apparent fall at Lost Dutchman State Park, Pinal County Sheriff's officials say.
The incident occurred around the Flatiron peak area when the hiker, 21-year-old Richard Jacobson, reportedly went off the trail to take a photo and slipped.
ABC15 spoke with Jacobson's childhood best friend, Paul Blanco. He says the two were inseparable.
“The only thing I can remember is kind of like my ears starting to ring. Just like shock. Denial. Just like not being able to believe it,” says Blanco.
The two used to hike Flat Iron frequently.
Blanco says Richard was passionate about his faith and teaching others, saying he was involved in mission work in Washington and Utah.
Officials say Jacobson's friend called for help before 1 a.m. on Monday to report the fall. The pair was reportedly camping at the top of the mountain when the incident occurred.
His body was found about 700 feet below the summit and PCSO says a helicopter was used to recover his remains.
