Edina Man Dies in Tragic Swimming Accident at Tettegouche State Park
A summer family vacation turned to tragedy on Monday when 54-year-old Gregory Corniea of Edina lost his life after failing to resurface following a leap into the river at High Falls in Tettegouche State Park.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a 911 call just after 11:30 a.m. Multiple agencies assisted in the search, including Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) field agents who deployed an underwater robot. Corniea’s body was recovered around 1:45 p.m.
Authorities believe Corniea, who was visiting the park with his family, struck his head on submerged rocks after jumping from the cliffs—a popular activity at the falls—preventing him from resurfacing. His family told KARE 11 the incident was a heartbreaking accident during what had been a joyful trip, noting that both he and others had made the jump safely in the past.
The High Falls of the Baptism River, standing 63 feet tall, is the highest waterfall entirely within Minnesota. While stunning, the site is known for strong currents, hidden rocks, and unpredictable depths, all of which can create dangerous conditions for swimmers and jumpers.
Authorities urge park visitors to be mindful of these risks and to exercise extreme caution when near waterfalls and fast-moving rivers.