Man’s body found two months after falling into creek from McConnells Mill

LAWRENCE CO., Pa. — Two months after a man fell from McConnells Mill State Park into a creek, his body has been found.

Rescue crews found the body of Jeff Hanby II Thursday -- exactly two months since he slipped on a rock and fell into Slippery Rock Creek on May 2.

He fell into the creek about 100 yards downstream of a covered bridge, officials said.

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A search for Hanby, 38, immediately began that night and continued each day over the past two months.

Brandon Kraeer says he was getting ready to walk his dog when he saw Hanby fall in from about 40 yards away. He said he started running after him on the trail, trying to throw him a life vest.

“I followed him all the way probably about half a mile and then all of a sudden he went into a rapid and that was the last time I personally saw him,” Kraeer said.

Park officials issued the following statement:

“The body of Jeff Hanby II was recovered this afternoon at McConnells Mill State Park. This concludes the search effort that began on May 2, 2020 when Hanby slipped from a rock and fell into Slippery Rock Creek.

We are thankful to bring this closure to the family and friends and greatly appreciate the assistance throughout from numerous rescue and first responder organizations.”

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