Photographer dies in Tamolitch fall

MCKENZIE BRIDGE: Linn County deputies are investigating the death of a Bend area man near Tamolitch Falls, off of Highway 126 near the Trail Bridge Reservoir.

According to Captain Kevin Guilford, the incident occurred  at 5:24 p.m. on Sunday. The  Linn County 911 dispatch center received a call from Central Lane 911 dispatch, requesting a deputy respond to assist medical personnel. It was reported at approximately 3:30 p.m. a subject had fallen and was seriously injured.

Guilford said Joel Jesse Martin, 52, of Bend, reportedly was taking pictures and fell from the trail approximately 45 feet into shallow water, striking his head. The fall was witnessed by another hiker, a paramedic, who not with Martin, and attempted to render aid. An emergency room nurse also came upon the incident and assisted with resuscitation efforts.

Martin eventually died on scene due to the injuries from the fall.

The location of the incident is about three miles by trail from the Eugene Water & Electric Board’s Trail Bridge power station. Because of the remote location, Guilford of the incident said, communication and access limitations greatly hampered notification and rescue efforts.

Linn County Sheriff’s deputies, Oregon State Police, Linn County Search and Rescue, Corvallis Mountain Rescue, the Upper McKenzie Rural Fire Protection District and medical personnel from Sisters responded to the incident. Eugene Mountain Rescue conducted the recovery of Mr. Martin.

Police said there is no indication of foul play involved in the incident. Mr. Martin’s body was taken to Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. The investigation is continuing.

Image above: The “Blue Pool” at Tamolitch Falls is a popular scenic feature for photographers.