Man taking batting practice at Grand Canyon is now under investigation, officials say

The Grand Canyon isn’t the place for batting practice, park rangers said.

A man is under investigation after he was spotted Sunday hitting baseballs into the Grand Canyon, national park officials said.

“Park personnel are in contact with the involved individual,” park rangers said Wednesday on Facebook. “Though no further details are available at this time, we sincerely thank all who submitted tips.”

Throwing items into the canyon can be dangerous for wildlife and hikers, Grand Canyon officials said.

“Never throw rocks, coins, trash, or anything else over the edge,” park officials said. “Objects tossed over the edge or dislodged by walking off trail can injure hikers and wildlife below, or start landslides.”

The Grand Canyon, like many other national parks, also has rules around minimizing the impact tourists have on the land and wildlife in the area.

“As we spend time outdoors, in the natural world and in wilderness, it’s important to be conscious of the effects our actions may have on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems,” the National Park Service said.

Park visitors should always minimize waste and never leave any trash or other items behind, officials said. People also shouldn’t build structures or take rocks or plants with them.

Visitors who violate park rules and regulations could face fines or even imprisonment in some cases, according to the National Park Service.

This story was originally published October 21, 2021 at 9:41 AM with the headline "Man taking batting practice at Grand Canyon is now under investigation, officials say."