Fannin County, GA – A tragic accident in the Cohutta Wilderness claimed the life of one camper and left another injured early Saturday morning. The incident occurred at Panther Creek Falls, a popular camping site in the area, when a large tree fell onto a campsite where four young men were sleeping in hammocks.

The Fannin County Fire Department’s Search and Rescue team was activated at approximately 2:12 a.m. following a distress call reporting a life-threatening emergency. Authorities say that the four campers were resting when the tree unexpectedly crashed down on them, causing severe injuries.

A father and daughter, who were camping nearby, heard the incident and immediately rushed to the scene to provide assistance. Their quick response likely helped stabilize the situation as they remained with the injured group until emergency teams could arrive.

Despite their efforts, one of the campers was pronounced dead at the scene, while another was transported with serious injuries. The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

The emergency response required the efforts of multiple agencies, with 23 personnel involved in the operation. Teams from the Fannin County Fire Department, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Management Agency, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division all worked together to reach the remote site. The Fannin County Coroner’s Office and the United States Forest Service Law Enforcement Division also assisted in the investigation.

It took over five hours for rescue crews to navigate the challenging terrain and reach the site of the accident. Authorities have not yet disclosed how the tree fell but have promised a thorough investigation into the cause.

The campers were reportedly staying at a backcountry site near Panther Creek Falls, a location known for its rugged beauty but also for the hazards inherent in such remote areas. As authorities continue to investigate, the tragedy has raised concerns about safety in the wilderness, particularly during adverse weather conditions or unexpected natural events.

As of now, the community is left to mourn the loss of a life, with local officials expressing condolences to the family and friends of the victims.

The incident underscores the challenges emergency responders face in remote wilderness areas, where access can be difficult and time-sensitive rescues are complicated by the terrain. In this case, the coordinated response from various agencies was crucial in assisting the injured camper and recovering the body of the deceased.

While details remain sparse about the cause of the tree’s fall, experts suggest that natural events such as strong winds or root instability, often seen in older trees, may have played a role in the accident.

As the investigation continues, officials are reminding outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution when camping in remote areas and to be prepared for unexpected situations in the wilderness.