A tragic incident occurred on Friday when a hiker lost their life after falling from a path along the Blue Ridge Parkway and into a nearby body of water. National Park Service rangers promptly responded to the area near Boone Fork Trail, close to Blowing Rock, where a hiker reportedly fell from the trail. Local emergency services, including Watauga and Blowing Rock EMS, also arrived at the scene to assist in the recovery efforts and provide CPR.
The deceased hiker has been identified as 40-year-old Jie Huang, who was visiting from Plymouth. Unfortunately, Huang was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have indicated that the cause of death is likely due to injuries sustained from the fall.
Boone Fork Trail, known for its scenic landscapes, stretches approximately 5 miles and features various creeks and waterfalls. Officials have not disclosed the exact location where Huang’s body was recovered, but it was found roughly a mile from the trailhead.
At this time, no additional information has been released regarding the circumstances of the incident.