A pastor’s son in Texas died after falling from a 50-foot waterfall in Washington state during a trip celebrating his graduation from high school.
Brad Ray Herridge, a pastor from Ocker Brethren Church in Temple, Texas, expressed on Facebook that his son, Grant Herridge, passed away on June 8 due to a “tragic accident” that took place at Olympic National Park located in Washington.
According to a statement from the National Park Service, an 18-year-old male fell from a 50-foot waterfall in Olympic National Park in Port Angeles, Washington. Witnesses recounted seeing the young man navigating over rocks atop the waterfall before he lost his balance and slipped.
The Olympic National Park Search and Rescue Team began its search immediately after Herridge went missing, but haven’t recovered his body. Rescue operations were paused on Tuesday because of weather conditions.
Grant Herridge sits in a pool while overlooking mountains. (Instagram/Grantherridge)
“He had wanted to go to Baylor his whole life,” Herridge said. “His mom and I graduated from Baylor, his mom works for Baylor… so Baylor’s like in his heart.”
In a statement posted to Facebook, Grant Herridge’s former school, Vanguard College Preparatory, said, “We love you, Grant.”
Sol Duc Falls in Olympic National Park. (National Park Service)
“You were a bright light and a true lighthouse in the Viking community, guiding others with kindness, joy, fun, and unwavering faith and inclusivity. Whether in the classroom, on the golf course, or in the halls, your light drew people in and made them feel seen, valued, and welcome,” the school wrote. “The students, faculty, staff, and coaches are all better because of you.”
