TRAGIC FALL

Tourist Plunges to His Death at Famed Wonder of the World Site

The man fell while on a guided tour of the Inca Trail in Peru.

An Australian tourist died after a horrific fall while hiking Peru’s famed Inca Trail, authorities said. Matthew Cameron Paton, a 52-year-old police officer from Victoria, Australia, was trekking the trail Wednesday with a tour group and guide when he reportedly fell through a broken railing along a steep section of the route and plunged roughly 1,000 feet, according to the BBC. Members of Peru’s high mountain rescue unit located Paton’s body on Thursday near the “50 Gradas” part of the trail after he was reported missing. Cusco Police Region chief Virgilio Velasquez said that investigators believe Paton tripped while crossing a wooden bridge and attempted to grab onto the railing before it gave way. “Unfortunately, he fell down the ravine,” Velasquez said. Paton’s devastated family said the Peru trip to Machu Picchu, one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, had been a longtime dream and described themselves as “shattered” by the tragedy. He leaves behind his wife of 31 years and three children. According to the BBC, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will provide consular assistance to the family as authorities continue investigating the fatal fall.