Tragic incident at Buffalo National River as 13-year-old boy falls to his death while hiking with friends. The teenager’s father discovers his body. Kayleb Lynn Eddings passed away after slipping off a bluff near a river in Arkansas on October 18. The heartbreaking news was confirmed when his father, Toby Eddings, was the first to locate his son’s body.
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Reports from ABC affiliate KHBS and CBS affiliate KFSM revealed that Kayleb was hiking with a friend near Brewer Bluff at Buffalo National River when the accident occurred. Emergency services were alerted around 11 a.m. with responders from various agencies rushing to the scene. The local fire department engaged in a daring 260-foot rappel over the bluff while park rangers scoured the area near the river in an attempt to locate the teenager.
Unfortunately, the authorities found Kayleb unresponsive, and he tragically succumbed to the fall. Near the river, the terrain is described as rugged and steep, a warning issued by park officials to maintain a safe distance from the edge when enjoying the overlooks. The Searcy County Sheriff’s Office and the National Park Service are yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the incident.
The Eddings family is now grappling with the profound loss of the eighth grader. In an emotional obituary, they described Kayleb as a beacon of love, adored by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His infectious personality and loving nature endeared him to all he encountered. The family reminisced about Kayleb’s fondness for riding his four-wheeler, spending time with friends, and engaging in bonding activities like hunting with his grandpa.
The tribute highlighted Kayleb’s special bond with his siblings, especially his youngest brother, Bean. The void left by Kayleb’s absence is described as a “deafening quiet” in the family’s home, where his voice once echoed. Despite the irreplaceable loss, the family finds solace in nature’s subtle reminders and the eternal presence of God.
To honour and celebrate Kayleb’s life, a gathering will be held at a local high school gymnasium in St. Joe, Ark., on Thursday, October 23. As the community comes together to mourn and reminisce about the vibrant young soul that left us too soon, the Eddings family cherishes the precious memories and the everlasting impact Kayleb had on those around him.
The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of treasuring each moment spent with loved ones. The outpouring of support and sympathy from the community highlights the profound impact Kayleb had during his short time on earth. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Eddings family as they navigate through this difficult period of loss and grief.