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STEUBENVILLE -- A man found dead by hikers last week appeared to have fallen, Police Chief Wes Crawford said Monday.
The victim, 52-year-old Randy Bake, was found Friday morning near the old Stone Lodge in the north end of Beatty Park. Crawford said evidence found at the scene "led officers to believe (he) may have fallen" from the structure, and after an autopsy the coroner concluded Bake's injuries "were consistent with a fall."
Flora VerStraten-Merrin, president and founder of the Friends of Beatty Park volunteers, said the incident highlights one of the fundamental rules of hiking: Don't take chances.
"During a day-time hike, (you) should always inform someone where you're going and even think about hiking with someone while in one of the more remote areas of the park. Many hikers will hike with their dogs, on leash of course," she said.
She said hikers should always remain on designated trails to avoid hazards such as poison ivy and stinging nettle, which can cause painful rashes.
"Staying on the trails also preserves and protects the ecology of the park," she said. "Feet trampling off trail will also damage flowers, mosses, and plant life, many of which can’t be seen if the tender growth is in its beginning or ending stages of life. Off-trail hiking and play creates erosion of soil and in turn affects the habitat of the park."
VerStraten-Merrin said hiking after sundown creates additional risks because of limited visibility.
"At night, limited visibility makes the park's nature trails dangerous," she said. "There is heavy tree/leaf canopy, a lot of active nocturnal wildlife, and a higher chance of getting lost. These factors can turn a familiar path into a hazardous environment where simple mistakes can lead to serious trouble."
She said one of the biggest concerns after dark is the increased risk of falls.
"Tree roots, loose rocks, and holes vanish in the dark, making twisted ankles and falls very common," she said. "Drop-offs, rocks, steep edges, and even water hazards near the trail become nearly invisible without a powerful light. Slower movement is required and if someone is running, navigating rough ground is very dangerous and increases risks of falls, which in turn create a possibility of spending more time exposed to the elements."
She also warned that wildlife activity increases after dark, with predators and scavengers such as coyotes, bears, raccoons and snakes becoming more active. Temperatures also can drop quickly after sunset, increasing the risk of cold exposure.
"Anyone, even those that think they know the park can suffer from disorientation," she said. "Landmarks, signs, and even the familiar creek crossing can disappear, making it easy to wander off the path."
VerStraten-Merrin said staying on designated trails at any park, not just Beatty Park, "is a core rule of outdoor ethics, like Leave No Trace."
Beatty Park closes at dusk.