Michigan Man Dies In Fall At Illinois State Park

OGLESBY, IL — A Michigan man fell to his death early Sunday near the lodge at Starved Rock State Park in Illinois, according to police. The man, identified as Alexander J. Torres, 31, of Holland, was reportedly at the lodge to attend a wedding.

Illinois Conservation Police told the News Tribune that Torres fell more than 30 feet off a bluff behind the Great Hall in what is being investigated as an accident.

Police said Torres had crossed into a restricted area before the fatal fall.

Firefighters used ropes to recover Torres' body and he was pronounced dead at 2:45 a.m. at Illinois Valley Community Hospital.

Torres' obituary said it was clear form his early years that the Michigan native was "going to be curious, active and adventurous," adding, "In 2017, he was fortunate to marry the love of his life, Marly, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by their family and friends."

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In his memory, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to raise money for Torres' 12-year-old nephew, Andrew Ty, who is battling a degenerative disorder that is gradually causing him to lose his sight. The fundraiser will help Andrew and his mother, who is raising him on her own.

"Alex would have wished to be a continuing influence in Andrew Ty's life but this tragedy took away his opportunity to be physically at Andrew Ty's side," the campaign says. "We have created a legacy fund so Alex can continue his love and support for Andrew Ty and ensure that he and his mom can respond to Andrew Ty's increasing needs."

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