A 26-year-old Pennsylvania woman died after being swept over St. Mary Falls in Glacier National Park on Sunday, despite extensive resuscitation efforts by bystanders and emergency responders.

The woman fell into the waters of the 35-foot-high St. Mary Falls around 5:20 p.m., where she remained trapped underwater for several minutes. Bystanders and emergency personnel, including park rangers and an ALERT helicopter team, worked desperately to revive her, but she never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead by 7:00 p.m. The National Park Service has extended condolences to her family and has emphasized the ongoing risks associated with the park’s natural attractions, which are under continual investigation.

The tragic incident took place at the popular St. Mary Falls, a site known for its stunning views and accessible hiking trails. Despite its beauty, the area presents inherent dangers due to the fast-flowing water and slippery rocks.

According to reports, the woman fell into the water at around 5:20 p.m. on Sunday and was trapped underwater for several minutes before bystanders managed to pull her out.

Once the woman was out of the water, quick-thinking bystanders administered CPR in an attempt to save her life. Emergency responders, including park rangers and personnel from Babb Ambulance, continued life-saving efforts upon their arrival.

At approximately 6:20 p.m., an ALERT helicopter arrived to assist with resuscitation efforts. Despite the comprehensive measures taken during the hour-long ordeal, the woman did not regain consciousness.

Resuscitation efforts were officially terminated around 7:00 p.m., after which the woman was pronounced deceased. Her body was flown to the 1913 Ranger Station near St. Mary, Montana, where they were met by the Glacier County coroner around 7:30 p.m.

Following standard protocol, the woman's body was transported to the medical examiner's office in Missoula, Montana, for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Authorities have not released the woman's name, pending notification of her next of kin. The National Park Service released a statement offering condolences to the family and friends of the victim and requested that the public respect their privacy during this difficult time.

The incident has prompted an investigation by park authorities to understand better the circumstances leading to the fall. While details remain sparse, the investigation aims to ascertain if any safety measures can prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The National Park Service extended its gratitude to Glacier County, ALERT, Babb Ambulance, U.S. Border Patrol, and numerous bystanders who contributed to the rescue efforts. Their collective response highlights the community's readiness to assist in emergencies.

Drowning and falls are among the leading causes of death in Glacier National Park, highlighting the inherent risks of exploring natural landscapes. Park officials continually remind visitors to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when hiking near water features.

As the investigation continues, the tragic loss serves as a somber reminder of nature's unpredictable dangers. Park officials are likely to review and possibly enhance safety measures to protect future visitors from similar incidents.