INDEX, Wash. — A volunteer firefighter fell to his death at the Index Town Wall near Index on Friday, according to deputies from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.
The Index Town Wall, which is just off Highway 2, is a trail in the Central Cascades well known for its steep hiking and climbing opportunities.
On its website, the Washington Trail Association warns hikers the trail is perilous.
This unofficial trail is steep, features cliffy dropoffs, and is extremely eroded. Because it’s not officially built or managed, hikers are encouraged to find other locations to explore in the area.
Sky Valley Fire confirmed the man was a volunteer firefighter after his death.
“Every victim gets our best care, but trying to save the life of a fire department member is very emotional for all involved,” wrote a spokesperson.
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Once the man was declared dead, search and rescue crews arrived and recovered his body.
At 6pm this evening, Deputies were dispatched to the Index Wall area where a 33 year old Index man had fallen. The male has succumb to injuries as a result of the fall. Search and Rescue has responded to recover the decedent.
— snocosheriff (@SnoCoSheriff) October 28, 2023
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