New York authorities are currently investigating the tragic death of Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, a 39-year-old woman from Singapore, who reportedly fell approximately 70 feet from a cliff while taking photos. The incident occurred during a vacation with her husband, Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, as they were hiking along Beacon Hill Trail in Minnewaska State Park, located around 100 miles north of New York City, on December 22.
According to the New York State Police, Akbar lost her footing at the edge of the cliff, resulting in the fatal fall. Her husband, Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, immediately called 911, prompting a response from state police troopers. A helicopter was deployed to hoist Akbar out of the challenging terrain, and she was subsequently transported to a local hospital. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries, and the incident remains under investigation.
In a poignant social media post, Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said provided details of the accident and expressed his deep sorrow. The couple had chosen a scenic spot in the park to take pictures and discuss their plans when the tragic incident unfolded. Said recounted the slippery conditions due to ice on the ground and rocks, making them treacherous.
Said, who was recording a video of his wife talking about the park’s beauty, witnessed her slipping and falling off the cliff. In a heartfelt Facebook post, he revealed, “Right after Ais fell off the cliff, I rushed forward, slipped, but didn’t fall off the cliff. (Believe me, I wished it had been me).” He screamed for help, and three sisters who were hiking in the area, along with their father and aunt, rushed to his aid.
The sisters hiked down to the location where Akbar had fallen, providing comfort and assistance during her final moments. Said expressed gratitude to the sisters, noting that they informed him Akbar was still breathing when they reached her. The compassionate sisters even shared their coats to keep her warm until rescuers and medics arrived.
In a shaky video shared by Said, he can be heard shouting, “Thank you! Is she still alive!?” The response from one of the sisters is affirmative, providing a brief moment of relief amid the intense emotions.
As the rescue operation unfolded over approximately three hours, Said shared that paramedics informed him Akbar was no longer breathing at the time of evacuation. The challenging terrain, slippery rocks, and the need to cut down trees for evacuation contributed to the lengthy operation. Said attempted to reach his wife but faced difficulties due to the hazardous conditions, resulting in an injury to his right wrist.
Following the completion of necessary legalities, Akbar’s body was repatriated to Singapore and arrived on Wednesday morning. The funeral and final rites are set to take place at the couple’s home in Singapore. In a heartfelt message to his wife, Said expressed regret for not being physically present during her final moments and asked for forgiveness.
The tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities and the importance of safety precautions, especially in challenging terrains. The grief-stricken husband’s account of the accident highlights the profound impact of such unforeseen tragedies on the lives of those left behind. As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar and reflects on the fragility of life.