Grand Canyon helicopter tourist jumps to death

A man aboard a sightseeing helicopter took off his seat belt, opened a door and jumped to his death in Grand Canyon National Park, officials said today.

Investigators offered few details about the death on Thursday and did not identify the victim.

The helicopter was returning to the canyon’s South Rim when the man plunged about 4,000 feet, said park spokeswoman Donna Nemeth.

“The man allegedly opened the door of the aircraft and exited, but until the investigation is completed, we can’t say exactly,” she said.

Four other passengers and the Papillon Airways pilot were shaken but unharmed.

A search for the man’s body was continuing.