An unfortunate end came to the search for a missing boater as Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials announced the discovery of a body at Spinney Mountain State Park. The recovery operation concluded on Monday afternoon after a multi-agency effort over three days, amid less than ideal conditions. The Marine Evidence Recovery Team (MERT) from CPW, alongside personnel from the Park County Sheriff’s Office, Summit County Sheriff’s Office, the Colorado Springs Fire Department Heavy Rescue-Dive Team, Hartsel Fire, and the South Park Ambulance District, faced strong winds and thick plant life during their search, as reported by CPW.
The incident itself occurred on Saturday, just before noon, when park rangers were alerted to an overturned canoe with two individuals aboard. A nearby boat was able to rescue one of the boaters, while the recovered individual was not wearing a life jacket despite their presence on the boat. The victim’s identity has yet to be released, pending formal identification by the Park County Coroner’s office.
Spinney Mountain State Park is set to resume standard operation come Tuesday. However, Colorado Parks and Wildlife takes this moment to remind the public of the inherent risks associated with spring and early summer aquatic activities. Water temperatures during these seasons linger at dangerously cold levels, making proper precautions life-saving. Recreators are strongly urged to wear life jackets while engaging in boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or any form of water leisure that puts them on or in the unforgiving Colorado waters.
