While an investigation of a Topsfield mother’s death at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation on Wednesday remains underway, police said on Thursday that it appeared to be accidental.
Sutton police received a 911 call at around 1:47 p.m. about a woman who fell 50 to 75 feet at Purgatory Chasm, the department said in a statement.
The woman, a 49-year-old mother of four, was hiking with three of her children and other family members “when tragedy struck,” police said.
“There were multiple medical professionals in the area hiking the chasm at the same time, and were able to provide medical attention right away,” the statement read.
The woman, whose name has not been released, died from her injuries and was pronounced dead, police added.
“This is currently an active investigation, but does appear to be accidental,” the department said.
Sutton police thanked the following agencies “for their quick response and professionalism during these very difficult circumstances”: the Sutton Fire Department, Massachusetts State Police, the Northbridge Police Department, Sutton MedStar Teams, Department of Conservation and Recreation rangers, District 7 Technical Rescue Team, District 7 Re-Hab 78 Unit, Massachusetts Environmental Police and LifeFlight.
“Lastly, the Sutton Police Department would like to extend our condolences to the family during this very difficult time,” the statement concluded.