Tragic Hike: Mother Falls To Death In Front Of Children

A peaceful hike turned tragic when a Massachusetts mother slipped and fell over 50 feet to her death at Purgatory Chasm, as her three children looked on.

A tragic accident happened in Massachusetts when a mother fell to her death while hiking with her children.

Carolyn Sanger, 49, was walking along the trails of Purgatory Chasm in Sutton on Wednesday when she fell more than 50 feet. Her three children were with her at the time and quickly ran to find help from park rangers.

Emergency services arrived at around 2 p.m. after being alerted by the children. Some medical professionals who were also hiking in the area tried to help, but sadly, Sanger was pronounced dead at the scene. “She succumbed from her injuries and the crews are there now attempting to retrieve her remains,” said Sutton Police Chief Tom Calouro.

Officials said the fall seems to have been accidental, and an investigation is ongoing. Sanger, a retired oncology nurse, had recently stopped working and was focusing on new goals. She had bought a building in town and was renovating it herself to follow her “passion for wellness.”

Her sudden death has deeply affected her loved ones. A GoFundMe was started to support her family through this difficult time. “For those that knew Carrie, know that she was a bright light; a wonderful, selfless mother who has raised four incredibly, respectful, responsible kids,” the fundraiser stated. It added, “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.”

Her mother expressed her heartbreak on Facebook, writing: “Our beautiful gifted, kind, loving, spirited daughter Carrie Daniels Sanger taken far too soon.”

A friend also shared their sorrow online, describing Sanger as “such a sweetheart who I met through networking, so genuine and caring.” The friend added, “Hurts more because I’ve been to Purgatory Chasm several times and know how many families go there for a great time in the outdoors.”

Purgatory Chasm is known for its steep cliffs and uneven rock paths. One hiker, Andy Spears, commented on the risks: “There are trails above the chasm you can go along, dangerous overhands if you’re going to the edge to look down. It’s really sad that it had to happen at a place like this.”

Massachusetts State Police offered their sympathy, saying, “We offer our condolences to the family and loved ones of the decedent.”

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