Rock Hill, NY, October 13, 2025
News Summary
A father and his nine-year-old son tragically lost their lives during a rafting trip on the Neversink River. Experienced but caught in hazardous conditions, they went missing for 48 hours before their bodies were recovered. Safety officials are warning the public about the dangers of certain sections of the river, emphasizing the importance of life jackets and cautioning against kayaking beyond Holiday Mountain.
Rock Hill, NY – Authorities have issued a warning about the dangers of the Neversink River following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of a father and son during a rafting trip. Marco Avila and his nine-year-old son, Marcos, both from Queens, went missing, leading to an extensive search operation that spanned 48 hours. Responders from 25 state and local agencies focused their efforts on the Deer Park area. Unfortunately, the search transitioned into a recovery operation once the bodies of the victims were found.
The family was experienced with the Neversink River, but they encountered hazardous conditions due to rain-swollen currents. The tragic incident occurred when young Marcos was rafting with his cousin at the Oakland Valley Campground. Their raft flipped, prompting Marco Avila to rescue his nephew. However, in the process, he was swept downstream along with his son, resulting in their disappearance.
Initial investigations revealed that neither Marco nor Marcos was wearing life jackets at the time of the incident, despite recommendations and mandates for safety gear on the river. New York State Police Captain Jennifer Gottstine confirmed that the situation evolved from a search for survivors to a recovery mission once the bodies were ultimately discovered.
In light of this tragedy, the Rock Hill Fire Department has emphasized the inherent dangers present in certain sections of the Neversink River. Specifically, they have issued warnings against kayaking or tubing beyond Holiday Mountain due to particularly hazardous conditions. Signs posted at the Neversink River explicitly indicate the risks, with some firmly stating “You Could Die.”
The area beyond Holiday Mountain, known as the Neversink Gorge, features steep valleys and two significant hazardous waterfalls that pose a danger to those who venture there. Emergency access in this gorge is limited, complicating rescue and safety efforts in emergencies.
Adding to the concerns, another individual, 18-year-old Alessandra Maida, experienced a separate incident on the Neversink River when she fell through thin ice while attempting to retrieve her phone, which she had thrown during a disagreement. A police officer and a firefighter responded, successfully rescuing her with specialized equipment. Alessandra experienced shock and hypothermia following her harrowing experience.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of water safety and strongly cautioned the public against underestimating the risks associated with icy conditions and swollen waterways. The Rock Hill Fire Department has highlighted the necessity for individuals to heed posted safety signs to mitigate the chances of future tragedies on the river.
These incidents serve as stark reminders of the potential dangers of outdoor adventures and the critical importance of proper preparation and adherence to safety measures. Whether rafting, kayaking, or enjoying other water activities, individuals are urged to prioritize safety to protect themselves and their companions.
FAQ
What happened to Marco and Marcos Avila during their rafting trip?
Marco Avila and his nine-year-old son, Marcos, went missing during a rafting trip on the Neversink River. After a 48-hour search, their bodies were recovered.
What conditions contributed to the dangerous situation on the Neversink River?
The family was experienced but faced rain-swollen currents that made the river conditions hazardous.
Where should people avoid kayaking or tubing on the Neversink River?
The Rock Hill Fire Department warns against kayaking or tubing beyond Holiday Mountain due to dangerous conditions.
What precautions are recommended for those enjoying water activities?
Authorities recommend wearing life jackets, adhering to posted safety signs, and avoiding risky areas to prevent tragedies.
Key Features of the Neversink River Incidents
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident | Tragic rafting accident involving Marco and Marcos Avila. |
| Search Duration | 48 hours by 25 local and state agencies. |
| Location | Neversink River, specifically Deer Park area and Oakland Valley Campground. |
| Safety Gear | Neither victim was wearing life jackets. |
| Warnings | Signs indicating risk levels and unsafe conditions beyond Holiday Mountain. |
| Other Incident | Alessandra Maida fell through thin ice; successfully rescued. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Neversink River Tragedy
- Wikipedia: Neversink River
- ABC7 NY: Young Woman Rescued
- Google Search: Neversink River Safety Precautions
- Reading Eagle: Neversink Mountain Safety Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: River
- New York Almanack: Delaware Aqueduct Tunnel
- Google News: Water Safety Protocols
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
