A Lehigh Valley man was found dead at the base of a scenic overlook in Dunmore after he was reported missing earlier this week.
The body of Zackary Caflin, of Bethlehem was found Tuesday about 200 feet below a cliff commonly referred to as the Top of the World, Dunmore police said in a news release. Dunmore police detectives ruled his death accidental, ruling out foul play or a deliberate act.
First responders were dispatched Tuesday to the Lost Trails area off Dunham Drive for a report of a man who had been missing since Monday night, police said.
Dunmore firefighters, along with those from Scranton, Olyphant, the Lackawanna County Emergency Management Agency, and the man’s family and friends, searched the area. Caflin, who was identified based on his clothing, was found later that afternoon with assistance from a Blakely police drone.
Located off Dunham Drive near Dunmore Reservoir No. 1, the scenic vista is part of a 4-mile trail popular with hikers and off-road vehicle riders.
Police warned in the news release that though the offroad trails in the area are popular due to their scenic views, many of the trails are privately owned for the purpose of ATV riding and are unsuitable for hiking.
“The terrain in that location is extremely dangerous on foot, and anyone who makes a decision to hike that area should not take any unnecessary risks,” they said. “It also makes rescue operations very difficult and dangerous. The terrible accident that occurred on Oct. 21, 2025, could have been avoided.”
Originally Published: October 24, 2025 at 11:20 AM EDT