by At Habersham County’s Panther Creek Falls, a 22-year-old man drowned and passed away Monday.
On July 28, just before 11 a.m., Habersham County Dispatch texted 911 about a potential drowning at the well-known swimming and hiking location. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Habersham County EMS, Lee Arrendale Fire Department, and Habersham County Sheriff’s Office were among the several organizations who responded.
First responders used ATVs and UTVs to reach as near as they could before trudging the last distance into the remote area, said DNR’s Mark McKinnon.
Officials were informed by witnesses that the man slipped and plunged into the water while attempting to climb the falls. He was dragged out and CPR was administered by onlookers. He was declared dead at the spot by emergency medical officials.First responders from Habersham arrive at the area via Camp Yonah Road on an ATV. (Haberham/Daniel Purcell)To get ready for the rescue effort, a Georgia DNR Aviation chopper touches down at Habersham County Emergency Services Station 17. (Haberham/Daniel Purcell)
The weather forced DNR Aviation to temporarily ground, but they eventually recovered the man’s body and gave it to the Habersham County Coroner’s Office.
Officials stated that after notifying his family, the man’s name would be made public.
