PICKENS COUNTY — The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office has ruled the death of a Simpsonville teen on Sunday inside Table Rock was an accident.
Interviews with the witness and preliminary results from the autopsy are all consistent with the original reported findings that Jonathan Michael McKenzie, 16, of 301 Weaver Lane in Simpsonville, slipped on wet rocks and fell to his death, according to a statement released by the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office.
“Our hearts and prayers continue to be with Jonathan’s family and friends especially with the young lady who witnessed Jonathan’s fall on Sunday,” Sheriff Rick Clark said. “We encourage all hikers to stay on the designated trails and to always venture out with a partner in the event that you may need some assistance. Registering with the park officials before you leave on your journey is critical for your safety and security.”
According to the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, McKenzie was hiking the trails at Table Rock State Park when he stopped to refill water bottles at Mill Creek Falls. McKenzie lost his footing and fell from the waterfall. Officials estimated he fell more than 50 feet.
Pickens County emergency crews responded around 3:45 p.m. Sunday along with personnel from the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office to help recover McKenzie’s body. The trail he and his 16-year-old female companion were hiking was located about three miles from the trailhead.
Emergency crews located McKenzie and transported him down the mountain by foot where he was pronounced dead.