A Phoenix man died at Fossil Creek near the falls Sunday after he jumped into the water to help his son who was struggling, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office said.
Gary Gaytano, 51, helped his son to shore but then slipped under water. He was found at the bottom a short time later.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office said family members pulled Gaytano from the water and performed CPR on him.
Gaytano was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office said the call originally went to the fire department in the town of Strawberry, which is the closest department. However, the Forest Service road from Strawberry to Fossil Creek has been closed for years, leaving that department with no way to get to the area.
The call instead went to Camp Verde, which is farther away. The Department of Public Safety helicopter landed nearby and airlifted Gaytano away.
Gaytano worked for an insurance company in Glendale. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help with the family's expenses. Coworkers have been posting photos and memories of Gaytano.
One wrote, "You hold a special place in our hearts and we will not forget you."
Another wrote, "You will be sorely missed."
Officials continue to investigate the incident.