A man died trying to rappel a waterfall on Sunday at Steele Creek Falls in Burke County.
Burke County Emergency Services said emergency communications received a call around 1:15 p.m. Sunday about a man who had been rappelling a waterfall during an outing and had become incapacitated. A second call came in while Emergency Services were on the way to the scene that said the man had possibly drowned and bystanders were starting CPR, according to a release from Burke County.
“Due to the challenging terrain and remote location, technical rescue teams required a significant amount of time to reach the victim safely,†the release said.
The release said despite the bystanders’ efforts, the man was pronounced dead after emergency crews accessed the scene an hour later.
“We express our deepest thoughts and condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,†James Robinson, director of Burke County Emergency Services, said in the release. “We also want to recognize the efforts of the bystanders who attempted to render aid, and the dedication of all rescue personnel who responded under very challenging conditions.â€
Responding agencies included Burke County Emergency Management, Burke County Rescue Squad, Burke County EMS, Burke County EMS Special Ops, Linville Central Rescue, Chesterfield Fire Rescue, Triple Community Fire and Burke County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation of the incident was conducted by the United States Forest Service, the release said.
Burke County Emergency Services is urging all outdoor recreation enthusiasts to take every precaution when navigating rugged and remote terrain and to ensure proper safety measures are in place during activities such as rappelling, hiking or climbing.
For more information, contact Burke County PIO at 828-764-9388 or email pio@burkenc.org.
