10-Year-Old Dies After Falling 100 Feet While Hiking At National Forest In Illinois

HEROD, IL — A 10-year-old girl died last week after she fell roughly 100 feet while hiking in a national forest downstate, according to reports.

Everly Kate Montgomery, of Odon, Indiana, was with family Friday at the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest when she accidentally fell, according to The Southern Illinoisan. She was taken to a hospital by helicopter but died of her injuries, the newspaper reported.

Everly played softball on multiple teams and enjoyed going to the library, according to her obituary. She is survived by her parents, brother, grandparents and other relatives.

“She was a bright, inquisitive young girl and an avid reader,” the obituary said. “Her smile and enthusiasm could brighten anyone’s day.”

For information on how to stay safe while visiting the Shawnee National Forest, go to www.fs.usda.gov/main/shawnee/learning/safety-ethics.