Death at Niagara Falls: Investigation as mother and children die after climbing over safety rail

A tragic event unfolded on Monday at Niagara Falls, where a mother is believed to have jumped to her death with her two young children. Chianti Means, 33, reportedly climbed over the safety railings at the iconic New York and Canadian landmark with her infant daughter, five-month-old Mecca, and her nine year old son Roman, before plunging into the waters below, according to a report by New York police.

The search for their bodies continues with police using drones and underwater resources. Responders from emergency services were dispatched to Luna Island, nestled between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, following reports of the incident around 9pm on Monday.

A police spokesperson recounted the harrowing details: "On October 28, 2024, at approximately 9:00 PM., New York State Park Police and the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to an incident on or around Goat Island in Niagara Falls, NY.

"Investigation determined that three individuals, Chianti Means, 33-years-old, Roman Rossman, nine-years-old and Mecca Means, five-months-old all crossed over safety guild rail and went over Niagara Falls on Luna Island (attached to Goat Island). The investigation has determined that this incident was intentional in nature, though the circumstances remain under investigation."

Tourists at the scene reportedly witnessed Chianti, Mecca, and her older child fall to their deaths. The New York State Park Police, along with State Police, conducted thorough search and rescue efforts to no avail, reports the Mirror.

It came to light today that Ms Means previously expressed her love for her children on Facebook, referring to them as her "reason to live". A poignant message from Chaianti's own page included a heartfelt post dedicated to her son when he was two, featuring an image with the words: "I love my son! I gave him life... he gave me a reason to live."

The power of the Niagara Falls is evidenced by the Falls' website stating that 3,160 tonnes of water flow over the falls per second even in harsh winter conditions, the flow remains unstoppable. The region is managed by the New York State Office of Parks and Recreation, offering round-the-clock access to visitors every day.