Multiple Incidents and Fatalities in Acadia National Park Leading up to July 4 Weekend
A QUICK NOTE FROM US: The following is a press release from Acadia National Park that came out July 3 at 3:30 p.m. and is sent to multiple news agencies (hence the same headlines, etc.). We’re a few minutes late with it because we are out covering other things. There’s just two of us here. Apologies!
Our earlier story about the fire is here. Our story about the climber who fell is here. The follow-up on his recovery is here as is the release from DMR about the sailing incident.
We hope that you have a safe holiday and that we see you out there this weekend.
BAR HARBOR—Acadia National Park rangers responded to a string of emergency incidents and fatalities in the past week. As park rangers prepare for what is sure to be a busy holiday weekend, they urge visitors to take safety precautions during their visit.
“Any fatality in the park is devastating,” said Superintendent Kevin Schneider, “but having three major incidents in the park this close together is hard to fathom. I’m proud of our park rangers who responded to these terrible incidents and worked tirelessly support the victims and their families as the incidents unfolded. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those impacted by these terrible tragedies.”
On June 23, Acadia National Park rangers responded to reports of a 20-year-old male who fell about 20 feet at the South Wall of Champlain Mountain climbing area. When park rangers arrived on scene, Bar Harbor Fire Department ambulance was preparing to transport the patient, who had been carried to the Park Loop Road by a group of other climbers.
On June 25, park rangers and local EMS personnel responded to a report of a man who collapsed and hit his head near the summit of Cedar Swamp Mountain. When first responders arrived, the patient was not breathing and had no pulse. Life Flight of Maine transported the patient to Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor. The patient has since passed away from his injuries.
Park rangers also assisted Maine Marine Patrol officers in a fatal incident after a sailboat ran aground near Eastern Head on Isle au Haut on June 30, 2025. Maine Marine Patrol is leading the investigation of that fatality.
Accidents happen, but planning ahead for your visit to Acadia can not only help reduce your risk of injury and help you maximize your time in the park during peak season. Learn more about how to plan for your visit at go.nps.gov/AcadiaTop5.