Tragedy struck at Chatfield Reservoir as a missing paddleboarder was found dead Monday night after a harrowing search effort by boats and divers, as reported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The man had been paddleboarding with his two children when a sudden gust of wind caused them to fall into the reservoir around 4:25 p.m. Other nearby paddleboarders were able to rescue the children, but the man disappeared into the water, according to agency officials.
Divers from South Metro Fire Rescue and West Metro Fire Rescue, along with Colorado Parks and Wildlife park rangers and the wildlife agency’s Marine Evidence Recovery Team, tirelessly searched the water using sonar and an underwater drone.
Nearly three hours later, at 7:15 p.m., the man’s body was recovered, with officials noting that he was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
Identification of the man will be handled by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife emphasized the importance of wearing a life jacket while engaging in water activities in the state, especially given the unpredictable weather conditions that can lead to sudden changes like strong wind gusts at Chatfield State Park. Visitors are advised to check weather forecasts before heading outdoors.
For safety measures, Chatfield State Park provides free loaner life jackets to all visitors.
