16-year-old drowns in Oconaluftee River at Great Smoky Mountains National Park on June 24.

16-year-old drowns in Oconaluftee River at Great Smoky Mountains National Park on June 24. Park rangers and Cherokee Search and Rescue responded to a report of a teenager who lost his footing in the river behind the Mountain Farm Museum. Life-saving efforts were unsuccessful. Officials emphasize river safety precautions, including knowing water depth, temperature, and flow, and avoiding going alone.