UPDATED: Friends Remember Mahoney's Fun and Loving Spirit

Editor's Note: There has been conflicting police and fire reports as to the victim's last name. Her last name is legally Mahoney and the article has been adjusted to reflect that. Our apologies to the friends and family for any confusion. Our deepest sympathies.

Colleen Mahoney, 49, of 74 Thayer Road, Higganum, drowned Sunday night after falling into the water near a waterfall, officials said.

Mahoney was fishing along the falls area of Higganum Creek with two men when she apparently lost her balance and fell into the rushing water, hitting her head on a rock. The incident occured Sunday around 7:30 p.m., police say.

The Haddam Volunteer Fire Company responded with the Connecticut State Police.

Bystanders had pulled Mahoney out of the water by the time officials arrived. Firefighters said she was on a rock beneath the falls, approximately 100 feet down a steep pathway. 

Firefighters and Troopers removed the victim using a high angle rope system, according to Bob Norton of the . Lighting was provided by Haddam Volunteer Fire Co. The scene was cleared by Haddam Fire at approximately 9:30pm.

“Colleen loved her kids and her community," said friend Jody Bogdan, "she was generous and thoughtful in her many friendships. We will always remember her vibrant fun loving spirit!”