Ranger Dies After Incident At State Park, Flags Lowered Across PA

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — Flags across the Commonwealth are flying at half-staff in memory of a Tyler State Park resource ranger whose body was recovered on Sunday, two days after his kayak capsized in the Neshaminy Creek.

Alex Campbell, 38, was in a kayak late Friday morning performing his job when the boat capsized. Witnesses who saw him struggling in the rain swollen creek called 9-1-1, prompting a large response from Bucks County's first responders.

For nearly three days, emergency crews searched exhaustively for Campbell, both above the waters
with boats and rigging and underwater with dive gear. State Police helicopters also hovered overhead, scouring the creek from above.

His body was recovered on Sunday, the Pennsylvania State Police said. The Bucks County Coroner's Office was expected to conduct an autopsy today.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro ordered all Commonwealth flags across Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff on Tuesday at all state facilities, public buildings and grounds in honor of Campbell, who was married with two young sons.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of Alec Campbell, a dedicated member of our
Pennsylvania state park staff,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “I’ve spoken with his
wife and family, and on behalf of all of us at DCNR, I want them to know they are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. Our hearts go out to them, as well as to Alec’s friends, loved ones, and colleagues."

She continued, "Every day, state park employees play a vital role in welcoming visitors, protecting our natural spaces, and ensuring the safety of all who enjoy Pennsylvania’s beautiful parks. Alec’s commitment and passion touched many lives, and his loss is felt deeply across our entire community. We honor his memory and extend our sincerest condolences to all who are mourning his passing.”

Friends of the ranger have set up a GoFundMe page, which to date, has raised $38,000 to set up college savings accounts for his two elementary school-age sons, Calder (soon to be nine) and Miles, age 5.

"Alec was a bright and energetic light to all - a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend to his family and community," said the page.

In a Facebook tribute posted on the Bucks County Disc Golf Alliance page, Ryan posted that Alec enjoyed playing disc golf.

"During the pandemic, Alec and I played many courses together, including Tyler," he wrote. "He was a tremendous outdoorsman, smart, clever, kind and radiant. He'd be bummed out that the park was closed this weekend while they searched for him."

The park reopened on Tuesday after being closed throughout the long Memorial Day weekend while crews searched for Campbell.

Among the crews assisting at the scene were Newtown Fire Rescue, Lingohocken Fire Company, Bucks County Special Operations Dive Team, Northampton Township Fire Department, New Hope-Eagle Fire Company, Newtown Ambulance Squad, and the Upper Makefield Fire Company.

Also on the scene were members of the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania State Park Rangers, the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania State Police Aviation, and Pennsylvania State Maritime Unit.

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