European tourist dies after being swept over Elk Falls in B.C.

Campbell River - On Monday, a European tourist visiting Elk Falls Provincial Park was killed after being swept over the waterfall and into the Campbell River.

The Canadian Press has reported that the 42 year old man was taking photographs of the waterfall when he fell over. His identity and nationality won’t be released until his family and consulate have been notified. According to the Vancouver Sun, the incident happened shortly before 11 am Monday morning. When emergency workers arrived at the scene, he was located downstream and could not be revived. There are many signs at the park which caution visitors of the terrain. According to The Campbell River Mirror Campbell River RCMP Sgt. Craig Massey said, "Police do caution the public visiting this park area. The scenery is incredible and can often be distracting. Area users are reminded how in the space of one step you can move from dry rocks with solid footing to a wet and dangerous slide into the fast, running water." Massey said, "We see these tragedies unfold and it gives you an appreciation for life. In the blink of an eye, it can change pretty quick," reports The Vancouver Sun. Elk Falls Provincial Park is located outside of Campbell River, a town of 32,000 people on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Elk Falls plummets 25 meters into the Campbell River. The site is a popular destination for tourists to enjoy year round cycling, hiking, camping, nature viewing and fishing. This is not the first time an accident such as this has occurred. In June 2006, a 35 year old man from Nanaimo (south of Campbell River) also died after falling over Elk Falls, reports The Vancouver Sun.