An Australian tourist has died after falling 400 to 500 metres into a ravine while trekking Peru's Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The incident occurred on Wednesday when Matthew Cameron Paton, a 52-year-old Victoria Police sergeant, fell through a broken wooden railing on a steep section of the route known as '50 Gradas'.
Paton had arrived in Peru 12 days earlier for a holiday and was trekking with a group of tourists and a guide. According to Peruvian authorities, he tripped while crossing a wooden bridge and grabbed the railing, which gave way, causing him to slip into the abyss. His body was recovered the following day after a difficult search operation in rugged terrain.
Paton's family said they were 'shattered' by his death, describing him as a devoted husband of 31 years and father of three. They noted his career as a military man, accountant, black belt in karate, and his love for teaching. 'If you were in trouble he was the guy you wanted to have around,' the family said in a statement.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush expressed devastation at the loss, highlighting Paton's 16 years of distinguished service, his sense of humour, and his dedication to colleagues. Paton joined Victoria Police in 2009, served at several stations, and became an instructor at the Victoria Police Academy in 2017. He had recently been selected for a senior sergeant position.
Peruvian authorities are investigating the cause of the fall. Paton's body will be transferred to Cusco. The Inca Trail, which winds 42 km through mountains to Machu Picchu, attracts over 1.6 million visitors annually, with access capped at 500 hikers per day.
