Fatal Fall Victim Identified

5/11/15

(CLEVELAND) – The victim of the fatal fall from the face of Yonah Mountain Sunday has been identified. White County Coroner Ricky Barrett said, 43-year old John Hebenstreit of Braselton slipped on a rock at the top of the popular mountain and fell about 100 feet.

Barrett said, medical personnel worked on the victim for a while, but he succumbed to his injuries. Rescue personnel were dispatched around 2 PM and the fatality was confirmed just after 5 PM.

White County Public Safety Director David Murphy said Hebenstreit was on an outing with his family when the accident occurred. About 15-20 White a County emergency personnel were involved in the operation, along with a Department of Natural Resources helicopter.

Operations wrapped up around 6:15 p.m.

7 Comments

robert and dora sumner on May 11, 2015 at 1:34 pm

our prayers are with this family. May God’s hands be on them during this time of grief.

Sherri Gerrell on May 11, 2015 at 3:05 pm

My heart sank when I saw the helicopter and read about this terriable accident! God be with this grieving family! Our community is praying for you dear family of John Hebenstreit!

Sissy Williams on May 11, 2015 at 3:56 pm

I am broken hearted for this family. I was there on the mountain yesterday. My family and I have been praying for a miracle ever since. I am so very sorry. We will continue to pray for this precious family; that they feel God’s love and peach all around during this difficult time. May they be surrounded by friends and family who can be the hands and feet of Christ for them right now. I’m so sorry.

stephen on May 11, 2015 at 8:37 pm

Rip prayers

MD on May 12, 2015 at 8:26 am

Shocked and heartbroken by the news. John aka “Woody” was someone that I worked with over the years and got to know quite well. My heart goes out to his wife, kids, parents….his entire circle of family and friends. Woody, your jovial spirit will be missed. MD

Mark Proctor on May 12, 2015 at 11:24 am

My heart is heavy for his family and the loss of my friend. We had great times coaching kids baseball and fishing together. I will cherish the memory.. Woody was a good man with a good heart. He loves his family and is a joy to be around. I will always miss you my friend.

Pete Vega on May 15, 2015 at 1:39 am

It’s hard to put into words the feelings that I have. I pray for peace and comfort for your family. I will remember all the great times that we shared and how it was a blessing to be your friend. RIP