Body found near Laurel Falls, Hampton, TN

[ChinMusic]

It is a terrible tragedy, but I would assume that the wife/mother would want to know what really happened.

You make some interesting points.

1. The mode of the deaths (assuming accidental) is a minor issue to the loved ones. They have lost loved ones one way or another.

2. If the first reports of it being a straight drowning were not true, if it were a fall, wouldn't the coroner's report show trauma.

As someone not associated with the individuals the mode of death does matter. I want to learn what can "bite" me out there. As I said before those falls looked so very tame.

[Mayo]

You make some interesting points.

1. The mode of the deaths (assuming accidental) is a minor issue to the loved ones. They have lost loved ones one way or another.

2. If the first reports of it being a straight drowning were not true, if it were a fall, wouldn't the coroner's report show trauma.

As someone not associated with the individuals the mode of death does matter. I want to learn what can "bite" me out there. As I said before those falls looked so very tame.

It was reported that an autopsy was to be performed on both bodies, but I haven't heard of the results. One hiker could have fallen without injury and then got in trouble. The fact that both hikers were wearing their hiking boots is a pretty good indication that they weren't planning on swimming.

There was one other drowning there in 1997. It was winter, and a a young man fell/jumped into the creek above the falls, and then was swept over the 45 foot falls at fairly high water. In my 19 yrs there, I have heard of no other close calls, or even heard any swimmers mention strong currents. In fact, many swimmers sit on the ledge at the bottom of the falls, right in the falls.

There aren't dangerous currents/hydraulics at Laurel Fork falls.

[ChinMusic]

There aren't dangerous currents/hydraulics at Laurel Fork falls.

I don't know you but I am inclined to believe you on this.

[MuddyWaters]

Im speculating. And I certainly dont mean any disrespect to the family of the victims. Still wearing hiking shoes certainly indicates they didnt intend to swim. Wade out possibly.

When my son and I reach a waterfall or scenic spot, first order of events is for me to take a picture of him, at it, from a scenic vantage point. I cannot now help but wonder if a camera was there.

[ChinMusic]

Today is the first I have read about "still wearing shoes".

[Creek Dancer]

It was reported that an autopsy was to be performed on both bodies, but I haven't heard of the results. One hiker could have fallen without injury and then got in trouble. The fact that both hikers were wearing their hiking boots is a pretty good indication that they weren't planning on swimming.

There was one other drowning there in 1997. It was winter, and a a young man fell/jumped into the creek above the falls, and then was swept over the 45 foot falls at fairly high water. In my 19 yrs there, I have heard of no other close calls, or even heard any swimmers mention strong currents. In fact, many swimmers sit on the ledge at the bottom of the falls, right in the falls.

There aren't dangerous currents/hydraulics at Laurel Fork falls.

How do you know for a fact that they were wearing hiking boots?

[Hairbear]

Or the other way around. No way of knowing.

sounds like no matter which way it was someone chose love over life there is no higher honor.

[born2weld]

Mayo I don't know who you are or why you think you should hear the results of the autopsy, but frankly it's none of your business. Take your negativity elsewhere. It is not appreciated here. The sheriff's dept and search and rescue took very good care of my family while I was there. I don't care what your opinion of the rescue was. They got them out and were much more sympathetic than you. - Sincerely, The wife and mom

[born2weld]

To those that have shown support, I can never express how much it means to me.

[Chris Waters]

To those that have shown support, I can never express how much it means to me.

I am so sorry for your loss. My girlfriend and I were just at the falls last week and she went swimming and yes there is an under current in the pool. I did see quite a few swimmers jumping into the pool but there is certainly an undercurrent. I stayed out of the water as a general rule. If something should go wrong I can at least grab a long limb and reach out to save a person in trouble. I also carry a long rope. Hikers cramp up after a long day and the water flow must have been heavy since they had lots of rain. I said a prayer for your loved ones to Jesus and the Blessed Mother. I am sure they were welcomed into the kingdom of God.

So sorry for your loss.

Chris Waters and Dana Miller

[ChinMusic]

Mayo I don't know who you are or why you think you should hear the results of the autopsy, but frankly it's none of your business. Take your negativity elsewhere. It is not appreciated here. The sheriff's dept and search and rescue took very good care of my family while I was there. I don't care what your opinion of the rescue was. They got them out and were much more sympathetic than you. - Sincerely, The wife and mom

I do think it is important for the public to know details as they relate to safety. Details beyond that should not be made public. I do not think there was any disrespect directed towards the grieving family.

[MuddyWaters]

I honestly dont think anyone meant any disrespect. I also believe everyone is quite sympathetic. As humans the kind of loss which has to be endured here evokes empathy in us, such that we can understand a bit of how hard it must hurt.

I understand the desire for privacy as well.

However, autopsy reports are generally a matter of public record for a reason. Only by documenting and making information on causes of death accessible, can society work to prevent certain causes in the future. That is why we pay for police and medical examiners to professionally determine it for us.

[BabySue]

Here's one example of Mayo being wrong about the number of deaths & the strength of the falls: http://archives.starhq.com/PDF/2006/July/072606.pdf

[CrumbSnatcher]

somebody should change the title thread to something a little more respectful to the family. sorry im not good with words to explain myself better, maybe im wrong.
To the family-i am so sorry for your loss. my prayers go out to you