A 22-year-old woman died on Sunday after falling off a cliff while hiking with friends near the Oneonta Trail in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, law enforcement said.
Elisha Angelic Macias of Hillsboro, Oregon was hiking with friends when she separated and went off trail. According to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Macias fell about 50 to 60 feet near the Horsetail Falls trailhead.
On Sunday, May 19, 2024 around 4:20 p.m., the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies responded to a report of a hiker who had fallen from a cliff west of the Horsetail Falls trailhead. Upon arrival, they found another hiker administering CPR, according to the sheriff’s office. Cascade Locks Fire & EMS personnel arrived shortly after and declared Macias dead at approximately 4:35 p.m.
The sheriff’s office reported that a search and rescue team helped the medical examiner retrieve Macias’ body, and a volunteer trauma support group offered resources to those impacted by the incident.
Deputy John Plock emphasized the importance of hiking with a group, stating, “Straying from the trail can be very dangerous. Unfortunately, that’s what occurred here. This young woman left her group, went off trail, and ultimately fell.”
Macias’ death marks the second hiker fatality in the Columbia River Gorge this year. In March, a 61-year-old woman also fell to her death in the same area.
A friend of Macias paid tribute to her on Facebook with a heartfelt message. “You were a true angel, even your middle name is ‘angelic,'” she wrote. “You were such a unique soul on this planet! Your voice, personality, and more! I’ll always remember the fun we had in 5th grade. You will be missed!!”
Law enforcement continues investigating how Macias fell from the cliff, as no one in her group saw the incident. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reminded hikers to be cautious and stay on marked trails to avoid such accidents.
The scenic Columbia River Gorge area, known for its beautiful waterfalls and rugged terrain, attracts many hikers each year. However, the steep cliffs and narrow trails can pose significant risks.
The sheriff’s office emphasized the importance of preparation and safety measures when hiking in such areas. “Make sure you have a map, know your route, and stay with your group,” Plock advised. “Even in well-traveled areas, it’s easy to get lost or find yourself in a dangerous situation.”