BROOKINGS, OR – A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday when a 69-year-old man plummeted over 300 feet to his death while hiking along the picturesque southern coast of Oregon, according to local authorities.
The deceased hiker, Richard Ehrhart of San Jose, California, was hiking with his wife on the coastal trail near Natural Bridges, approximately twelve miles north of Brookings. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office reported that Ehrhart and his wife had become separated during their hike.
Unaware of her husband’s fall, Ehrhart’s wife returned to their car. Meanwhile, another hiker on the trail dialed 911 around 2:35 p.m. after spotting what seemed to be a lifeless body on the rocks below.
Search and rescue teams faced the challenging task of rappelling about 300 feet down the steep, rocky terrain to reach Ehrhart. His body was then carefully hoisted up the rugged slope and transported to the parking area, where it was handed over to Redwood Memorial Chapel.
The circumstances leading to Ehrhart’s fall remain unclear. The Oregon State Police have launched an investigation into the incident and have shared information with the Curry County District Attorney.
Sheriff John Ward of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office extended his condolences to Ehrhart’s family and friends. He also took the opportunity to remind everyone of the inherent dangers of hiking along coastal trails, urging them to prioritize safety.
Natural Bridge is among several coastal viewpoints along an 18-mile stretch of the Oregon Coast Trail. This area is known for its “craggy bluffs, secluded beaches, and offshore rock formations,” according to Oregon State Parks.