GADSDEN, Ala. — A heavy sense of grief has settled over the Gadsden community following the tragic death of 36-year-old Corey Perez Green, who lost his life Wednesday night after a devastating fall near Noccalula Falls. The incident, which unfolded during a police pursuit, has left residents shaken and a family mourning a sudden and painful loss.
According to Etowah County Assistant Coroner Dantez Robinson, Green was pronounced dead after suffering fatal injuries in the area of the Noccalula Falls campground. Authorities said the events began as part of an ongoing investigation by the Gadsden Police Department’s street crimes and narcotics unit, which led to a vehicle pursuit late Wednesday evening.
Officials reported that the chase continued until the vehicle reached the campground entrance at Noccalula Falls. There, the driver allegedly drove around a gate in an effort to gain access and avoid police. Investigators say the individuals inside the vehicle were attempting to evade officers as the pursuit came to an end within the campground area.
After the vehicle stopped, two people exited. Police said the driver was taken into custody following a struggle with officers. Green, however, ran from the scene on foot, setting off a chain of events that would end in tragedy. Authorities say he ran a short distance before attempting to escape by climbing over a fence.
During that attempt, Green fell approximately 60 feet into a gorge below. The fall caused catastrophic injuries. Officials noted that the situation quickly shifted from a law enforcement operation to a life-saving emergency, with officers immediately calling for assistance and trying to reach him.
Emergency responders, including the Gadsden Fire Department, worked urgently to provide aid after reaching the bottom of the gorge. Despite those efforts, Green was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident remains under review as investigators continue to examine the circumstances, while the community reflects on a life lost in a matter of moments.