New Mexico man found dead in Arizona after apparent suicide

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Authorities in northern Arizona say a New Mexico man has been found dead in Walnut Canyon National Monument and that the death appears to be a suicide.

Coconino County Sheriff’s officials say 49-year-old Christopher Preston of Santa Fe had an apparent gunshot wound.

They say the county Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause of death.

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a suicidal person in the Walnut Canyon area on Sunday.

The man reportedly texted a friend that he could be found in a canyon east of Flagstaff.

Deputies and an Arizona Department of Public Safety helicopter joined National Park Service rangers in the search for the man.

Authorities say the man later identified as Preston was found dead a short distance from the Island Trail.

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The story has been corrected to reflect that Walnut Canyon is a national monument, not a national park.