Dimple Rock claims yet another rafter
Fayette County Coroner Dr. Phillip Reilly promises a quick inquest into the weekend drowning of a Maryland man who was on a guided rafting outing in Ohiopyle State Park. While it is important that the precise circumstances contributing to Andrew Dearden’s death come under scrutiny, it is doubtful that anything more could possibly be done to warn rafters of the dangers. Dearden’s four-man craft overturned near Dimple Rock, the site of several drownings. A few of the rafters, including Dearden, were able to grab hold of the craft’s rope. Apparently Dearden’s grip loosened; he went under. Despite wearing all the recommended safety equipment of helmet and lifejacket and presumably reading and listening to all the cautions that this is a river, not an amusement ride, Dearden’s life was lost.
After three similar drownings near Dimple Rock in 2000, a coroner’s jury, led by Reilly, made several safety recommendations. The park and guide groups embraced the suggestions. Tapes have been made, signs erected. A pull-off area was created so that inexperienced or cautious rafters can pull out before Dimple Rock and carry their boat around the treacherous stretch. Yet, mishaps and overturned craft continue to occur, and occasionally errors in judgment turn deadly.
Ohiopyle could line the banks of the Youghiogheny with neon lights flashing messages that deadly danger lay in wait; yet human nature being as it is, few would heed the warning. The river, with its ever-changing flow and depth, isn’t something to tangle with. For those who are out of shape or overweight (as the 400-pound Dearden is said to have been), Class IV rapids are not to be taken lightly. Even outdoorsmen in tip-top shape have run into trouble and drowned.
The same thrill of adventure that pumps through the blood of those who successfully navigate the course can kill those caught off guard or unprepared or who fail to respect the forces of nature.
While further safety recommendations, possibly from the coroner’s jury, are always welcome, the fact remains the rapids claimed another victim, and sadly Dearden won’t be the last. We can’t control the wild ride of the rapids. We can merely respect nature and beware that danger lurks beneath the beauty.