Mother and children die crossing Niagara Falls safety barrier
Police confirm intentional crossing of Niagara Falls barrier by family
A mother and her children lost their lives after crossing a safety guard rail at Niagara Falls, as confirmed by New York police. Authorities have described the act as “intentional.”
This tragic event took place on Monday night around 9 p.m., according to New York State Police. Witnesses alerted officials about individuals entering the Falls, stated New York State Trooper James O’Callaghan.
Police identified the woman as Chianti Means, 33, along with her son Roman Rossman, aged 9, and her 5-month-old daughter, Mecca Means. The family moved beyond a safety barrier on Luna Island and went over the Falls, police reported.
Chaianti Means, 33, and her children Roman Rossman, 9, and Mecca Means, 5 months, of #NiagaraFalls, #NewYork, died after intentionally jumping over Niagara Falls on Monday night
The family stepped over the guardrail at Luna Island and fell to their deaths. Their bodies have not… pic.twitter.com/QbbC4YPelP
— True Crime Updates (@TrueCrimeUpdat) October 31, 2024
The investigation has deemed this incident as intentional, although the details are still being examined, as per a press release issued by New York State Police on Wednesday. Search and rescue efforts did not succeed, authorities noted.
The family resided in the Niagara Falls vicinity. O’Callaghan shared with the media that investigators spent several days trying to piece together the chain of events. He highlighted the substantial security measures present at Luna Falls, situated on Goat Island’s north side, between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
O’Callaghan emphasized that the incident wasn’t accidental. He mentioned the family’s involvement in the investigation, expressing the hope to provide them with “closure.” He acknowledged the intentional nature of the act but admitted that understanding the motive is more challenging.
For those experiencing suicidal thoughts or concerned about someone else, support is available through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, offering free and confidential assistance 24/7.
What Other Media Are Saying
- ABC 33/40 reports that a woman and her two children, aged 9 and 5 months, died after intentionally going over Niagara Falls, highlighting a tragic and disturbing incident.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened at Niagara Falls involving a mother and her children?
They tragically lost their lives after intentionally crossing a safety guard rail.
Who were the victims in the Niagara Falls incident?
Chianti Means, her son Roman Rossman, and her daughter Mecca Means.
Was the Niagara Falls incident accidental?
No, authorities confirmed the act was intentional.
Where did the Niagara Falls incident occur?
It happened on Luna Island between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
What support is available for those with suicidal thoughts?
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 offers free, confidential help 24/7.
