Teen drowns at Northeast Georgia’s Panther Creek Falls

TURNERVILLE, Ga. — A 19-year-old man 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 recreation area at approximately 4 p.m. on June 7 following reports of a drowning.

The victim was identified as Reginald Starks of Jonesboro.

Authorities said Starks drowned in what has been ruled an accidental drowning. The incident was witnessed, according to information released by the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies recovered Starks’ body from approximately 12 feet of water.

Game wardens assisted Habersham County Fire Services and Rabun County Search and Rescue in transporting the victim nearly 900 yards through rugged terrain to the nearest roadway, where he was turned over to the Habersham County Coroner’s Office.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” Habersham County Coroner Kasey McEntire said.

Panther Creek Recreation Area, is located in the Chattooga River Ranger District of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest near Turnerville, is accessible from Old Historic U.S. 441 and is recommended for intermediate and advanced hikers due to its rugged terrain.