A 13-year-old male died from a fall near Brewer Bluff at Buffalo National River on Saturday, October 18, 2025. At approximately 11:00 am on October 18th, the Searcy County Sherriff’s Office was notified of the incident. Park staff, Buffalo National River Search and Rescue volunteers, Marshall Fire Department, Harrison Fire Department, and Survival Flight arrived on scene. Members of the Harrison Fire Department repelled 260 feet over the edge of the bluff while park rangers made it to the scene from the river. The teenager was found unresponsive.
“Buffalo National River staff and I send our condolences to this young man’s family,” said park superintendent Angela Boyers. “We also thank the responders from the local communities that showed up to assist with this incident.”
The incident is being investigated by the National Park Service and the Searcy County Sheriff’s Office. The 13-year-old was with a friend when he lost his footing. The terrain in Buffalo National River can be rugged and steep. While enjoying an overlook, please stay a safe distance from the edge.