Teen’s death in Indiana bridge fall appears accidental

GREENCASTLE, Ind. — Authorities say the drowning death of a 16-year-old after falling about 40 feet from a western Indiana railroad bridge appears accidental.

The Putnam County coroner said Monday that tests found Kody Snyder of Brazil drank alcohol before falling into Big Walnut Creek. Coroner Thomas Miller tells the Tribune-Star that Snyder was in the water for a time before four other young men who were also on the bridge could reach him early Friday.

Police tell the Banner Graphic that Snyder’s companions tried to drive him to a hospital, but got lost in the rural area west of Greencastle before stopping at a home for help about 4:15 a.m.

Sheriff’s Detective Patrick McFadden says Snyder’s fall appears accidental, stemming from the group’s decision to visit a dangerous bridge at night.