A 20-year-old tourist died after falling more than 170 feet from a waterfall in an Oregon state park while posing for photographs in an area closed to visitors, The New York Post reportedEmergency crews were called to Silver Falls State Park at about 6:30pm on Monday after receiving reports that someone had fallen from the top of South Falls.Oregon State Police identified the victim as Zachary Nicholas Mertens of Kentucky.
What happened at the waterfall?
Police said their investigation found that Mertens had entered a restricted area near the top of the waterfall to pose for photos.He then slipped and fell from South Falls, which drops about 177 feet.Emergency responders were sent to the scene, but Mertens died following the fall.Authorities have not indicated that anyone else was involved in the incident.
Popular Oregon tourist spot
South Falls is one of the main attractions at Silver Falls State Park, located near Salem, Oregon.The 177-foot waterfall is part of the park’s popular Trail of Ten Falls, a route known for its series of waterfalls.Visitors can also follow a trail that passes behind the falling water at South Falls.The Oregon State Parks system describes the waterfall as a major attraction within the park, which draws visitors for its trails and scenery.The incident remains under investigation.
