ESSEX, MASSACHUSETTS: A mother and the wife of an Everett police lieutenant, lost her life while trying to save her son from drowning at a New Hampshire waterfall on Tuesday, August 15.
Her son, 10, had fallen into water with a strong current at Franconia Falls and was unable to get out.
Who was Melissa Bagley?
Melissa Bagley, 44, jumped in to help him but soon faced difficulties. Two of her other children also entered the water to assist their mother and brother.
They managed to rescue the 10-year-old, but the 18-year-old got stuck in the rocks. Their father, Lt Sean Bagley, found his wife on a rock and performed CPR, but it was too late.
He then freed his elder son from the boulders and waited for the rescue crews to arrive. The 18-year-old was injured and taken to a hospital.
The family of six had come from Massachusetts for a hike and swim
The family of six had come from Massachusetts with a friend for a hike and swim at the falls, a popular destination in the White Mountain National Forest, WBZ reported.
The Everett Police Department issued a statement saying, "The Everett Police Department is sad to report the sudden passing of Melissa Bagley, 44, wife of Lt Sean Bagley who died during a family outing along the river in the White Mountain area yesterday afternoon. Melissa drowned while trying to aid one of her children who slipped into the river."
An autopsy for Melissa Bagley has been scheduled
Melissa Bagley travelled with her family of six from Lynn, Massachusetts, and a family friend for a hike at Franconia Falls in New Hampshire, according to state police.
New Hampshire State Police said they are investigating the incident, but confirmed that alcohol and drugs were not involved.
They also said an autopsy was scheduled for Melissa Bagley. The family has asked for privacy and thanked those who reached out.
“While we appreciate all those who have reached out we ask that Lt Bagley and his family be given the time and space to mourn the death of Melissa. "RIP beautiful mama .... Thoughts and prayers to the family," wrote a Facebook user in reaction to the post.
"So heartbreaking,' one more wrote. "This is incredibly tragic. Our hearts are with the Bagley and Everett PD families during this very difficult time,' Cambridge police department wrote, which was among several other departments that offered condolences.
