An Iowa father died while trying to save his son, who was swept away while hiking in a river in an Alaskan national park this week.
Matthew Burns, 47, and his 21-year-old son were visiting Lake Clark National Park and Preserve from Keokuk, Iowa, when the two entered the river at the base of Tanalian Falls around 2:15 p.m. Saturday, they said. Alaska State Troopers in a news release.
The son, who has not been identified, was swept downstream by the powerful current, state officials and the National Park Service said.
Burns quickly swam after him, but tragically drowned while her son was able to get to safety, authorities said.
The elder Burns was pronounced dead after first responders from the local Port Alsworth Volunteer Fire Department and the Southcentral Foundation’s Lake Clark Wellness Center failed to resuscitate him, the federal agency said.
His body was transferred to the state medical examiner.
The drowning occurred Saturday at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, about 100 miles southwest of Anchorage.Wildnerdpix
“The National Park Service thanks all the members of the local community and volunteer rescue personnel who worked together to respond to this incident,” the federal agency said. “Lake Clark National Park extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this event.”
The drowning is under investigation, though no crime is suspected, the park service said.
Lake Clark National Park is located in southwestern Alaska, about 100 miles from Anchorage, and is filled with various mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers.
The tragedy is one of several that struck national parks this summer.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn