Illinois Man, 24, Dies After 500 Foot Grand Canyon Fall

There are 12 accidental deaths per year at the Grand Canyon. This time, however, one death hits close to home.

Andrey Privin was pronounced dead on Tuesday July 3 after falling 500 feet at the Grand Canyon. People reported: "a visitor had climbed over a railing at Mather Point, then lost footing and fell."

Privin, 24, from Buffalo Grove, "was days away from starting a career as a nurse" according to the Chicago Tribune.

His death was quite the shock for his co-workers at the NorthShore University HealthSystem telling People, "We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time."

A GoFundMe was arranged to help Privin's parents with funeral expenses. The goal has already been reached, less than 4 days after his death.

Sweet Lenny is the brand manager of 97ZOK and Operations Manager for Townsquare Media Rockford. Catch him afternoons 3 to 7 on 97ZOK. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram and like his page on Facebook.<