ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — A 17-year-old hiker fell to his death in Klondike Park in St. Charles County Tuesday afternoon, the St. Charles County Police Department said.
According to a release from the police department, first responders were dispatched to the east side of Klondike Park at around 12:30 p.m. for a report of a fallen hiker. Police said the 17-year-old boy and a second teenager were hiking in a restricted area when the boy lost his footing and fell.
Kyle Gaines with the St. Charles County Ambulance District said a high-angle rescue team was dispatched to the park. They were able to find the boy, but he was pronounced dead a short time later.
The hiker who died has not been identified.
“It’s really sad and scary, too,” said 17-year-old Ireland Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald and her friend Grace Brown often go hiking in the St. Charles County Park.
“I’m really, really sorry to hear that happened. It’s really, really sad especially since he was so young and I feel sorry for the other teenager who was with him and everybody who knew him,” said 17-year-old Grace Brown.
The St. Charles County Police Department is investigating. The area around the boat ramp on the east side of Klondike Park was closed off for the investigation.
Klondike Park is right off Highway 94 between Defiance and Augusta in St. Charles County. Officials say for 19 years, it’s been a popular place for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking and walking.
“We have 10 established trails. We want people to know when you’re planning a hike, it’s always good to have a plan, “ said Ryan Graham, the Director of St. Charles County Parks.
Graham says hikers who trek to the park also need to remember to wear proper shoes, stay hydrated and keep their cell phones charged in case of an emergency.
“Observe the posted signage. Stay out of restricted areas. Keep in mind the weather and always let people know where you’re going. It’s a tragic accident that we had today and our hearts and prayers go out to the teenager’s family,” added Graham.
Teens fell from cliffs at Klondike Park in two separate incidents in 2008 and in 2016. Both survived.
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