HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — A 19-year-old man from Jonesboro died Sunday afternoon after drowning at Panther Creek Falls in Habersham County, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division.
Game Wardens responded to the incident at approximately 4 p.m. on June 7.
Officials identified the victim as Reginal Starks, 19, of Jonesboro. Starks was recovered from approximately 12 feet of water by deputies with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office.
Following the recovery, Game Wardens assisted Habersham County Fire Services and Rabun County Search and Rescue personnel in transporting the victim approximately 900 yards through rugged terrain to the nearest roadway. The victim was then turned over to the Habersham County Coroner’s Office.
Habersham County Coroner Kasey McEntire expressed condolences to the victim’s family.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” McEntire said.
Panther Creek Falls, located within the Chattahoochee National Forest, is a popular hiking destination that attracts visitors from across Northeast Georgia and beyond.
No additional information was immediately available.
