A 22-year-old White male named Michael Ray DeGroote died on June 30, 2015 while vacationing with his family at Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska. He was a senior student-athlete at Northern Arizona University, majoring in finance, and a member of its football program.
The death occurred at a campground in the park. Reports indicate DeGroote died from a gunshot wound inflicted by a firearm that apparently discharged while he was with family.
The circumstances of the shooting were under investigation, with authorities trying to determine whether it was accidental or deliberate. The family maintained DeGroote believed it was an accident.
It was noted that his father was traveling with him on the vacation trip, but was not present at the exact moment when the shot was fired. Investigators, including park officials, expressed the possibility that they might never conclusively determine intent.
No arrests were made in connection with his death. No suspect other than the possibility of self-infliction or accidental discharge has been officially identified or charged.
