On Wednesday, April 23, a mother from Massachusetts fell from a cliff while hiking a trail at Purgatory Chasm. She fell roughly 50 to 75 feet, and soon after, passed away from the injuries she sustained. Despite the presence of medical professionals quickly on scene, the injuries were too severe. The mother, Carolyn Sanger from Topsfield, Massachusetts, leaves behind her four children and many other family members.
Purgatory Chasm Claims Life
Carolyn Sanger, 49, was hiking at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Sutton, Massachusetts, on Wednesday afternoon. While on a hike with three of her children and other family members, the mother fell from a cliff on the trail they were walking on. The incident occurred a little before 2 PM, according to local police and the local county District Attorney’s office.
Sutton Fire Department, Massachusetts State Police, Northbridge Police Department, LifeStar, and others were all involved in the attempted rescue at Purgatory Chasm before Sanger was pronounced deceased. A Sutton police department representative made a statement regarding the rescue attempt. “There were multiple medical professionals in the area hiking the chasm at the same time, and they were able to provide medical attention right away. However, she had succumbed to the injuries sustained during the fall and was pronounced deceased a short time later.”
A hiker at the chasm, Andy Spears, spoke directly to WCVB, which is the ABC affiliate in Boston, Massachusetts. “There are trails above the chasm you can go along, [and] dangerous overhangs if you’re going to the edge to look down. It’s sad it had to happen at a place like this.” It is unclear the exact cause of the fall at this time, or whether any witnesses saw the incident take place.
The Police Chief in Sutton, Tom Calouro, also released a statement about the Purgatory Chasm tragedy. “Tragically, a 49-year-old mother of four from Topsfield fell in the chasm earlier today. She succumbed from her injuries and crews are there now attempting to retrieve her remains. From the town of Sutton, we extend our sympathies to the family for this tragic, tragic loss.”
Unfortunately, due to the high cliffs and rocky trails and environments, it is harder for rescue personnel to reach a person or body, although the local EMS does have training for rescue situations such as this one. The park was closed over the winter due to slippery conditions, but at the time, the path was dry. Police did say that the incident remains under investigation, although preliminary reports suggest that the fall was accidental. Police were originally informed about the situation from a 911 call that was made after family members of the mother found the park rangers.
The family has not made any statements at this time, but deepest condolences are sent to all friends and loved ones affected by this tragic event. As more information is released regarding the incident at Purgatory Chasm, the story will be updated.
