Portland man dies in fall from Beacon Rock

A man who died after falling more than 100 feet from Beacon Rock in Skamania County has been identified.

Nathan Turner, 30, from southeast Portland, fell Sunday at approximately 5:30 p.m., as he and climbing partner Michael Aubry, of northeast Portland, were rapelling down the Southeast Corner route.

According to Undersheriff Dave Cox, Beacon Rock is a popular climbing venue during the summer months.

According to Cox, family members said Turner was a firefighter for Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue in Oregon.

“This is a very unfortunate accident that has taken place,” he said. “Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to the family, co-workers and friends of this young man.”

Rescue personnel from Skamania County Sheriff’s Office, Skamania County Emergency Medical Services, Skamania County Fire Districts 1 and 2, and North Bonneville Fire responded.

According to the United States Geological Survey, Beacon Rock is an 848-foot tall basalt column that formed the core of an ancient volcano.

It is situated along the Columbia River at Mile Post 35 off of Highway 14, and is located within the 4,650-acre Beacon Rock State Park in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area.