Arizona tourist attacked while hiking Havasu Falls

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Arizona Tourist Attacked While Hiking Havasu Falls

Published: August 21, 2026

A trip to one of Arizona's most popular natural destinations turned terrifying for a 27-year-old woman from New York who was allegedly attacked while hiking on the Havasupai Reservation.

The woman was visiting the area with a friend for a trip to Havasu Falls when she became briefly separated from her companion and stopped to ask for directions. Investigators say that was when Taylor Nardo Paya allegedly attacked her. 

Attack Caught on Camera

The assault was captured on a nearby home's Ring camera, showing the incident taking place in front of homes on the reservation.

According to court documents, the victim suffered a cut to her neck and wounds to her hands during the attack. Investigators also say her cellphone was taken after it fell from one of her backpacks.

A resident reportedly intervened after seeing what was happening, bringing the injured woman inside, locking the door and providing first aid until help arrived.

Suspect Arrested

Paya, a member of the Havasupai Tribe, was arrested and is being held in federal custody on a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon because the alleged attack occurred on tribal land. He was scheduled to appear in federal court on August 20.

Court records also show Paya previously pleaded guilty to a 2015 robbery on the Havasupai Reservation and was sentenced to five years in federal prison. The U.S. Attorney's Office said he assaulted the victim in that case before stealing her personal belongings.

Victim Recovering Back Home

The victim was airlifted from the canyon and has since returned home to New York, where her family says she is recovering physically and emotionally.

The Havasupai Tribe condemned the reported attack, saying violence against visitors or tribal members is unacceptable, while thanking community members who helped the victim and authorities who arrested the suspect.

Paya's attorney has emphasized that his client is presumed innocent and is entitled to due process, noting that the allegations must ultimately be decided in court.

All allegations are accusations, and Paya is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.