SUTTON — A hiker at Purgatory Chasm died in a fall from a rock formation, according to authorities.
Rescue crews were summoned to the state reservation near Route 146 about 2 p.m. on April 23. A short time later, the request for a medical helicopter was canceled.
State police later confirmed that a person was pronounced dead at the scene.
NBC10 Boston, quoting Sutton Police Chief Tom Calouro, said the victim was a 49-year-old mother of four from Topsfield. He said the woman’s death appeared to have been accidental.
Public access to the park was blocked as crews rushed to the scene. Visitors already at the park were asked to leave.
Detectives from the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office are heading the ongoing investigation.
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, run by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is known for its many rock formations and trails. It’s a popular spot for casual and serious hikers. Some of the formations are as high as 70 feet, among them one called Lover’s Leap.
Rescue crews are occasionally called to Purgatory Chasm, with sprained ankles a common injury. There have been deaths over the years. An Uxbridge man died in a 2012 fall.
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