Police have confirmed an Australian man who fell to his death while hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru was a Victoria Police sergeant.
Rescue crews found the body of Matthew Cameron Paton, 52, after he fell from the trail on Wednesday local time, according to local media reports.
Sergeant Paton’s remains were reportedly found the following day about 300m below the 50 Gradas section of the trail, where he had been hiking with a tour group and a guide to the ancient site.
Cusco Police Region Chief Virgilio Velasquez told media that Sergeant Paton and his wife arrived 12 days ago and were on a four-day hike to Machu Picchu.
“We have information indicating that he apparently tripped while crossing a wooden bridge, and he likely tried to hold onto the wooden railing, but it gave way and he slipped into the abyss along with it,” General Velasquez said.
“Unfortunately, he fell down the ravine.”
Sergeant Paton was an instructor at the Victoria Police Academy where he taught recruits and police who responded to mental health incidents.
He was recently promoted to senior sergeant and was due to start the role next month.
Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said the thoughts of everyone at Victoria Police were with Sergeant Paton’s family and friends at this time.
“His colleagues and the entire policing family are devastated at the tragic loss of a wonderful, caring person,” he said.
“Matt had the ability to talk to anyone and everyone.
“The morale and welfare of his friends and workmates was always his priority.
“He will be remembered for his selflessness, amazing sense of humour, extreme kindness and inclusion of all.”
A statement released by Sergeant Paton’s family said they were shattered by his loss.
“It seems surreal at the moment – everyone is bereft,” the statement read.
“Family was the most important thing to Matt.
“He was dedicated to his family, including his wife of 31 years and their three children. He adored his family. And we adored him.
“If you were in trouble, he was the guy you wanted to have around because he would come to your aid.”
His family said Sergeant Paton always wanted to travel to Peru and he learnt Spanish when he was in his mid-30s so he could take this trip.
“He was always up for an adventure and to learn something and to experience something new,” the statement said.
According to Go Andes, the Inca Trail is about 46km long and it can take travellers up to five days to trek to the 500-year-old world heritage site.
The trail accommodates 500 hikers per day plus 200 guides, and is booked out by tourists up to 12 months in advance.
It is rated moderately difficult with “very demanding mountainous sections” and simple descents surrounded by incredible nature, according to Machu Picchu Terra.
Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and sits 2840m above sea level.
It is accessed by a trail that winds its way up steep mountains above Cuscuo’s Sacred Valley.
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said consular assistance was being provided to Sergeant Paton’s family.
“ We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” a spokesman said.
“Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”
