Andrea Norton, a 20-year-old Briar Cliff University, has died after falling off a cliff at Hawksbill Crag near Jasper, Arkansas — she was repositioning herself for a photo.
The incident occurred on Saturday about 100 miles northwest of Little Rock. Norton, who was originally from Hot Springs, South Dakota, fell about 100 feet off the cliff of the popular hiking destination that is within Ozark National Forest.
The young woman was an environmental science major, and she was hiking with her college friends. Briar Cliff University is located in Sioux City, Iowa. A professor, who has been coming to the area for over 20 years, led the group of students.
Norton’s obituary reads: “Her light, courage and drive is what drew people to her. She inspired those who knew her to be the best version of themselves, helped them reach their own goals and had such compassion for everything. Her smile could light up a room and she brought joy to all around her.”
It also contains: “Andrea developed a genuine love for the planet and devoted herself to making a major impact in the preservation. She never lost her rambunctious approach to achieving her goals.”
Briar Cliff University has also put out the following statement after Norton’s death: “Andrea was a passionate environmental science major, exemplary student and dedicated athlete. She lived BCU’s values in everything she did from the classroom to the court and everywhere she went.”
She was also part of the university’s volleyball. Briar Cliff’s women’s volleyball team said via Twitter: “We are saddened by the unexpected passing of our beloved teammate Andrea Norton. #22 on the court, #1 in our hearts.”
Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler said they get about 10 calls every year related to falls or injuries near Hawksbill Crag.
Although he sees the dangers of the hiking destination, Wheeler does not agree with those who think a fence could help prevent certainly fatalities.
He explained: “It will only hamper our efforts and will take away from the natural and wild beauty of the place that people go to appreciate.”
The sheriff wants visitors to be careful because reaching the area is not an easy task for emergency crews.
Wheeler added: “If you fall from the bluff, you’re looking at a four-to-five hour rescue. It took 61 people almost five hours to get Ms. Norton out the other day.”
He also said that his prayers are with Norton’s family.
