Portage County Investigating Fatal Cliff Diving Accident at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
PORTAGE COUNTY, OH — What began as a festive Labor Day weekend turned tragic at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park when 32-year-old Skyler Correll lost his life in a cliff diving accident on Friday, August 30. Authorities confirmed that Correll died after jumping from one of the quarry’s cliffs into the water below, a popular activity at the park that has also been the source of past safety concerns.
According to the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews were dispatched to the park after receiving a call about a possible drowning. Witnesses reported that Correll had leapt from a cliff into the quarry but failed to resurface. Friends and bystanders immediately attempted to locate him in the water before emergency responders arrived. Divers were later brought in, and Correll’s body was recovered after a search that lasted several hours.
The Portage County Coroner’s Office has ruled the death an accidental drowning, but the investigation remains ongoing. Officials are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the fatal accident, including whether height, water depth, or impact injuries contributed to his inability to resurface.
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park, located in Garrettsville, is known throughout Ohio and beyond as a summer destination for swimming, cliff diving, and live music events. While cliff diving remains a favorite attraction for thrill-seekers, authorities have repeatedly cautioned visitors about its risks. In recent years, the park has posted signage and guidelines stressing the importance of safety, but accidents continue to occur.
The death of Skyler Correll has left family, friends, and the local community reeling. Loved ones describe him as a spirited, adventurous person who lived life fully and brought joy to those around him. “Skyler had an energy that drew people in,” a close friend shared. “He loved the outdoors, loved his friends, and had a zest for life that we’ll never forget. Losing him this way is heartbreaking.”
Park officials expressed condolences to Correll’s family and friends, noting that safety remains their top priority. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident,” a park spokesperson said. “Our hearts go out to the family of Skyler Correll, and we ask all of our visitors to please respect posted rules and exercise extreme caution when enjoying the quarry.”
The tragedy has reignited conversations around safety at natural swimming and diving sites. Experts emphasize that cliff diving, while thrilling, carries serious risks — from misjudging the height of a jump to unseen underwater hazards. Even strong swimmers can quickly find themselves in danger after an impact.
As the investigation continues, Correll’s family is preparing to honor his life with memorial services in the coming days. Friends and community members have already begun organizing vigils and tributes, both in person and on social media, to remember him as a beloved son, brother, and friend who will be sorely missed.
Labor Day weekend is often celebrated as a time of joy, rest, and community gatherings. This year, for those who knew and loved Skyler Correll, it will forever be marked by a profound and painful loss.