BUFFALO TWP — Despite a prolonged rescue attempt, a man died on Thursday, Feb. 5, after falling into Buffalo Creek across from the Buffalo Creek Nature Park in Buffalo Township.

The fatality was confirmed by Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company Chief Matt Cypher.

The incident was first reported by Butler County emergency dispatch shortly after 1:30 p.m. The man was reportedly seen jumping from a bridge on Route 28 over Buffalo Creek, near the Butler-Freeport Community Trail.

In addition to Buffalo Township, Pennsylvania State Police Troop D of Kittanning and the Butler County Water Rescue Team were also dispatched. Volunteer fire and rescue departments from Saxonburg, Harrison Hills and Sarver also responded, as well as Freeport EMS.

According to Cypher, it is unknown whether the man fell into the creek or jumped.

“We were unable to make access because he was on the ice, so we called in rope teams and the water rescue team,” Cypher said.

During the rescue attempt, traffic on Monroe Road was blocked between South Pike Road and Kepple Road.

Pennsylvania State Police are currently investigating the incident.