A 20-year-old visitor from Kentucky died after slipping and falling about 177 feet from the top of South Falls at Silver Falls State Park, authorities said. The victim, identified as Zachary Nicholas Mertens of Burlington, Kentucky, climbed into an area closed to the public to pose for photographs shortly before the fall, Oregon State Police said.
Incident, response and recovery
Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Oregon State Police troopers responded to the park at about 6:36 p.m. on Aug. 10 after receiving a report that someone had fallen from the top of South Falls, one of the park’s most-recognizable waterfalls. Troopers said Mertens had crossed over a barrier at the upper viewpoint and traversed the creek immediately above the falls to pose for a picture.
At some point after going beyond the posted barrier he slipped and plunged into the water below, investigators said. Another park visitor attempted lifesaving measures until emergency personnel arrived, but Mertens was pronounced dead at the scene.
"It was a pretty horrific accident," said Chris Gilliand, a former Silver Falls State Park manager who now serves as a regional manager, according to the Salem Statesman Journal.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team oversaw recovery efforts. Oregon State Police said they were assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Search and Rescue, and Silver Falls State Park rangers.
Park context and recent pattern
Silver Falls State Park, east of Salem, draws thousands of visitors yearly for its Trail of Ten Falls and accessible viewpoints that allow visitors to view several waterfalls from designated trails and observation areas. State officials emphasized the incident occurred in an area closed to visitors.
Authorities noted the fatality follows another recent fatal fall at an Oregon waterfall. On Aug. 1, a 19-year-old man from Washington state died after falling from a cliff above Punch Bowl Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. In that case, investigators reported the man left the trail and fell about 50 to 80 feet attempting to reach the base of the waterfall.
Local community response and impact
The tragedy also touched the victim’s school community. Bellevue Independent Schools in northern Kentucky confirmed Mertens was a 2025 graduate of Bellevue High School. In a statement, Superintendent Misty Middleton said the loss has deeply affected students and staff and that counselors would be available at the middle and high school to support those who need assistance.
"We are heartbroken by this sudden and devastating loss," Middleton wrote in the school statement. She asked the community to keep Mertens’ family and friends in their thoughts and prayers.
Safety reminders and practical information
Park officials and public-safety personnel routinely warn visitors to obey posted barriers and stay on designated trails and viewing areas. Climbing over railings or entering closed sections above waterfalls increases the risk of a slip on wet, mossy rock or fast-moving water.
For visitors planning trips to Silver Falls State Park:
- Stay on marked trails and observation platforms.
- Respect closed areas and posted signage around viewpoints.
- Supervise children and keep pets leashed on trails.
- Be cautious near water and avoid taking risks for photographs.
Agencies involved and timeline
The following agencies responded to or assisted with the incident:
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| Oregon State Police | Investigating troopers; provided public statement |
| Marion County Sheriff’s Office | First responders and assisted in recovery |
| Marion County Search and Rescue | Search and recovery operations |
| Silver Falls State Park rangers | Onsite assistance and park coordination |
Investigators have not released additional details about the recovery or whether any citations will be issued. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police are the primary sources for the ongoing investigation.
The death underscores continuing hazards at waterfalls statewide and the importance of following safety warnings at popular recreation sites. Officials encourage anyone who witnesses unsafe behavior at park overlooks to alert rangers or call emergency services immediately.
