California TV Producer Killed After Falling 30 Feet From Rope Swing At State Park

SACRAMENTO, CA — A television news producer in Sacramento died after falling from a rope swing at a state park, according to authorities.

Kathryn Hoedt, 23, fell about 30 feet from the swing around 12:30 p.m. Saturday, landing on the shoreline at the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, California State Parks said in a prepared statement.

Hoedt’s friends brought her to the Rattlesnake Bar boat ramp and an off-duty doctor performed CPR, according to the agency, which said Hoedt was taken by emergency personnel to Sutter Roseville Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

Hoedt produced KCRA’s 8 a.m. newscast, according to the station, which described her as a vibrant young woman who graduated with a master’s degree from New York University at just 21.

“Katie will be so deeply missed,” anchor and reporter Brittany Hope said in a Facebook post.

“I will miss her giggle in the newsroom, and sweet voice in our ears during newscasts and live shots. At just 23, she was one of our youngest employees. A shooting star with knowledge and accomplishments far beyond her years.”

Rope swings are not allowed at state parks, KCRA reported, and Hoedt’s parents want signs put up to warn visitors against any swings that are at the sites.

Authorities on Wednesday removed lower branches from the tree containing the rope swings at Folsom Lake, according to California State Parks.