The teenager who fell to his death over the Sol Duc River waterfall June 8 had been traveling with a friend seeking to visit seven national parks on a post-graduation trip after graduating from high school. Eyewitnesses said 18-year-old Grant Herridge fell over the 50-foot waterfall after slipping while he was attempting to walk across rocks at the top. Olympic National Park officials say rescuers have been unable to recover his body since the accident due to unsafe conditions due to high river flows from snow melt. Recovery efforts will resume once conditions are safe. 

The teen’s father, Brad Herridge, a pastor at Ocker Brethren Church in Bell County Texas, said his son was always full of life and “loved doing exciting, fun things.”  He lived without anxiety and lived life to its fullest.”  He says Grant wore a ring for several years with an inscription inside that says, “While we wait for life, life passes.”

In a statement posted on Facebook, Grant Herridge’s former school, Vanguard College Preparatory said, “We love you, Grant.  You were a bright light and a true lighthouse in the Viking community, guiding others with kindness, joy, fun and unwavering faith and inclusivity.  Whether in the classroom, on the golf course, or in the halls, your light drew people in and made them feel seen, valued and welcome.  The students, faculty, staff and coaches are all better because of you.”

Photo: Facebook