River closes after Northern California family dies while hiking nearby
SAN FRANCISCO - The mysterious deaths of a Northern California family of hikers and their dog have led federal officials to close 28 miles along the Merced River, where high levels of toxic algae were detected.
The Bureau of Land Management closed campgrounds and recreation areas along the river, between the towns of Briceburg and Bagby, Friday after receiving test results of water samples downstream from where the family died.
Algal blooms can form in waterways that are shallow and warm.
Family possibly died from algae, investigators awaiting toxicology results
The family had moved to Mariposa County just last year. The Sheriff says toxic algae was found nearby, and now they're looking into the possibility that the toxic algae killed the three family members, and their dog. KTVU's Emma Goss reports.
"These algal blooms can produce toxins that can make people and pets extremely sick," Elizabeth Meyer-Shields, a BLM field manager, said in a statement. "We will continue to monitor for the algae’s presence and look forward to when the public can safely recreate in the Merced River."
The bodies of John Gerrish, his wife, Ellen Chung, their 1-year-old daughter, Miju, and their dog were found on Aug. 17 on a hiking trail close to the river in the Sierra National Forest. A family friend had reported them missing.
A cause of death has not been determined, and investigators are considering whether toxic algae blooms or other hazards may have contributed to the deaths.
Toxic algae bloom considered in death of North California family found along hiking trail
John Gerrish, his wife, Ellen Chung, their 1-year-old daughter, Miju, and their dog were all found dead on a hiking trail near Hite’s Cove in the Sierra National Forest in Mariposa County, California. Investigators from the Mariposa County Sheriff's Office and California Department of Justice are considering whether toxic algae blooms or other hazards may have contributed to their deaths.
Toxicology reports are still pending, and investigators have ruled out any weapons being used or dangerous gases from a mine along the trail.
On Tuesday, forest officials had closed access to trails in the area due to "unknown hazards."
Closure to the Merced River's recreation areas will stay in effect until Sept. 17.