A North Texas doctor is among at least 15 people still unaccounted for following a devastating flash flood that tore through the Grand Canyon over the weekend, killing at least one person and prompting large-scale rescue operations.
John Giusti, 46, a chiropractor from Granbury, was hiking in the canyon with two friends when catastrophic flooding struck the area on Friday, August 29. His chiropractic practice, Whipple City Family Chiropractic, announced his disappearance on Facebook, stating he had been camping in the region when floodwaters overtook the area.
Giusti had posted photos to social media on Friday with the caption “Day One. Arrived at the Grand Canyon,” indicating he had just begun his trip when the disaster unfolded. Family members say they last heard from him on Saturday, before the worst of the flooding hit.
His wife Janet Giusti issued an emotional statement asking for community support. “Dr. John is the heart of ChiroHabit, but above all, he is a deeply loved husband, father and pillar of our family” she said. “We ask our ChiroHabit community to please lift up my husband, his hiking group, and our families in your thoughts and prayers during this time.” The couple have three children together.
The National Park Service confirmed that the body of an unidentified 46-year-old man was recovered from Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River. Search and rescue teams have airlifted more than 60 survivors to safety as operations continue throughout the inner canyon.
The flooding caused widespread infrastructure damage, destroying nearly all footbridges along Bright Angel Creek and cutting off access for hikers and backpackers. Park officials are continuing efforts to identify and locate all remaining missing visitors.
Giusti’s chiropractic office has set up a donation channel for the Giusti family as they await word on his condition and whereabouts.
