A mother-of-four has died after falling 75 feet in a state park called Purgatory Chasm, while hiking with her children.
Carolyn ‘Carrie’ Sanger, from Topsfield, Massachusetts, was out with three of her kids when the tragic accident occurred on Wednesday.
Sutton Police Department received a 911 call at around 2 p.m. reporting that the 49 year-old had fallen approximately 50-75 feet on the state reservation. Multiple medical professionals were reportedly hiking the Chasm at the same time as the incident, who provided medical attention immediately.
However, Sanger had succumbed to the injuries sustained during the fall and was pronounced deceased a short time later, police said. The department added that the investigation is ongoing, but the incident “does appear to be accidental.”
A GoFundMe page, started on behalf of her family, described Sanger – who had recently left her career as an Oncology nurse to pursue her passion for wellness – as “a bright light; a wonderful, selfless mother who has raised four incredible, respectful, responsible kids.”
“She was a friend to all and her smile and kind spirit will be greatly missed. She passed too early- but she left the earth doing what she loved, with the ones she loved.”
Further tributes have been paid from friends mourning her loss on Facebook.
Catheryn Schoenfarber wrote “Carrie was a radiant presence, an extraordinary mother, nurse, healer, teacher, and friend whose compassion and skill touched countless lives.
“ Her passion for this work, and the kindness she brought into every room, left an imprint on everyone lucky enough to know her.
“She gave so much of herself to her family and to the people she cared for. We are holding her family, friends, and all who loved her close in our hearts. Carrie, you will be so dearly missed.”
More information on the investigation will be released from the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, the SPD said in a statement that went on to thank other local agencies.
“There are trails above the chasm you can go along, [and] dangerous overhangs if you’re going to the edge to look down,” hiker Andy Spears told WCVB. “It’s really sad that it had to happen at a place like this.”
Purgatory Chasm is described online as “a unique natural landmark offering exciting adventure.” Trails on the reservation include rock formations such as The Corn Crib, The Coffin and Lovers’ Leap.
