For the second time in as many months, an accident at Little Mashel Falls has claimed a life. An 18-year old male from Bonney Lake fell to his death from the top of the falls July 15. On June 25, a 13-year-old boy from Spanaway drowned after slipping and falling into the river at the base of the falls. In the latest incident, authorities were alerted at 3 p.m. that the victim had fallen 125 feet to water and rocks below. He had been hiking with a friend, who called 9-1-1 for assistance. Crews from South Pierce Fire and Rescue, Central Pierce Fire and Rescue and Pierce County Sheriff Department responded but were unable to save him. His name wasn't immediately available. Little Mashel Falls, which originates from Little Mashel River, is located near Eatonville. It can be accessed by trails. South Pierce Fire chief Bob Vellias said anyone who hikes to the location "should consider the followingGÇ¥: " The trail is for moderate to expert hiking and should only be used by experienced hikers. Wear proper clothing and hiking boots. The trail rapidly changes in elevation, and the ground surface is very loose going downhill. " Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Cell phone service is inconsistent in the area at the bottom of the falls area. " Be aware of your surroundings. Don't get distracted. Maintain good footing when taking pictures or seeking vantage points for viewing the scenery. In the fatal accident that happened in June, the victim didn't resurface after falling into the water. A Sheriff Department dive team recovered the boy's body after he'd been underwater for almost an hour. Paramedics tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate him. Authorities said family members indicated the boy, who was a middle school student in the Bethel School District, wasn't wearing a life preserver and didn't know how to swim.
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