PHOTO: A 39-year-old male was swept over the falls and sustained major injuries earlier today. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Staff Reports 

FORT PAYNE, Ala. —Larry Beane, Park Ranger with the National Park Service at Little River Canyon released a statement a short while ago (July 25): About 11:30 am, Little River Canyon staff responded to a report of a visitor that was visibly distressed below the falls.  The visitor had washed over the falls and sustained major injuries. Fischer Rescue and DeKalb County Ambulance Service were also dispatched.  A helicopter unit from Alabama State Troopers retrieved the 39-year-old male from the bottom of the canyon.  He was transported from the scene by air ambulance.

Adamsburg Fire, Alabama State Troopers, Fort Payne Fire Department, DeKalb County Emergency Services, and park Youth Conservation Corps, provided crowd control, medical services and high angle rescue support. The accident is still under investigation. The park thanks all those who assisted.

This is the fourth major incident at the falls this since Memorial Day.  Rescue personnel and park staff requests everyone to think about what is safe to do in the park during their visit.

Superintendent Steve Black invites you to come explore the park and enjoy the park safely.  For more information, call Little River Canyon National Preserve (256)845-9605.  Check out our webpage at www.nps.gov/liri .  You can follow our updates and find park pictures on Facebook at “lirinps”