Things Get Even Worse for the Newlywed Husband Who Watched His Wife Die in Illegal BASE Jump Attempt

News just got worse for the husband of a woman who died over the weekend after her parachute failed to open while BASE jumping in Utah.

According to the Salt Lake Tribune, 29-year-old Clayton Butler, while mourning the loss of his wife of just two weeks, was issued a citation this week that could result in a possible fine, jail time or both.

Clayton Butler an his wife Amber Bellows had only been married two weeks when she fell to her death. (Image source: KUTV-TV)

Amber Bellows fell about 2,000 feet to the ground Saturday afternoon. The 28-year-old had been attempting the jump from Zion National Park's Mount Kinesava, in the southern part of the park famous for its soaring red rock formations.

Bellows jumped first, around 4 p.m., but her parachute did not open. Her husband jumped after her, but could not reach her body. It took him another two hours to hike down the mountain and notify park officials.

Bellows was an experienced BASE jumper but her shoot did not open in time. (Image source: KUTV-TV)

The Salt Lake Tribune reported Wednesday that Butler was cited for violating the Code of Federal Regulations, which bans parachuting from structures in national parks. The misdemeanor comes with fines up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail, if convicted.

A date for Butler to appear in court regarding the charge has not been set, parks spokeswoman Aly Baltrus told the newspaper.

Watch KUTV-TV's report:

Park officials said Bellows was an experienced BASE jumper. BASE stands for Building, Antenna, Span, Earth — the different platforms used by jumpers.

BASE jumping is banned in Zion, and this is the first time a jumper has died.

"It is just really sad and our condolences go out to her family and friends," Acting Superintendent Jim Milestone said in a statement. "BASE jumping is so dangerous. Even for those that are experienced, like Amber Bellows. That is one of the reasons it is not allowed in the park."

Officials found Bellow's body in a helicopter search on Sunday morning.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.