Overview

• Carolyn Sanger, a 49-year-old mother of four from Topsfield, Massachusetts, died after falling 50–75 feet at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation on April 23.
• The fall occurred while Sanger was hiking with three of her children, who located a park ranger to call for emergency assistance.
• Nearby medical professionals provided immediate aid, but Sanger succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Authorities, including the Sutton Police Department and Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, have deemed the fall accidental but are conducting an active investigation.
• The tragedy has renewed focus on the dangers of Purgatory Chasm's steep terrain, with officials urging caution for visitors, especially families.