Tragedy at Niagara Falls as Mother, 2 Children Fall to Their Deaths

A woman and her two children are dead after reportedly climbing over a railing at Niagara Falls and plummeting to their deaths.

According to The Associated Press, New York state police reported that the mother, 33-year-old Chianti Means of Niagara Falls, New York, climbed over a safety rail with her 9-year-old and 5-month-old children. Authorities arrived at the scene around 9 p.m. on Oct. 28 and concluded that the trio went over the rail on Luna Island, located between American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. 

"The investigation has determined that this incident was intentional in nature, though the circumstances remain under investigation," state police said in a statement.

To try to track down the missing people, police used unmanned aircraft and underwater units. On Oct. 30, authorities declared that search and rescue efforts were unsuccessful. 

After her death, posts from Means' Facebook page surfaced giving a look into her mindset in the weeks leading up to the incident. According to Unilad, she posted multiple messages about having a troubled relationship with the father of her children, who had apparently left her. 

The investigation into the case is ongoing. 

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).