Tragedy struck at Steamboat Lake State Park this past weekend when a fishing trip took a fatal turn. According to CPW, park rangers were called to the scene of an overturned watercraft on Saturday, shortly after 3 p.m. A "bellyboat," a U-shaped inflatable float tube designed for fishing, was found capsized in the water with no immediate signs of its occupant.
Upon investigation, rangers discovered the body of an individual submerged and tethered to the bellyboat by a safety strap. The victim, who was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), was pronounced dead at the scene. As reported by CPW, the body has been turned over to the Routt County Coroner for identification and to determine the cause of death.
The incident occurred near the Rainbow Ridge day-use area on the park's west side, and witnesses noted that conditions were challenging. "Steady winds with strong gusts were reported at the time of the incident," as per CPW. Park Ranger David Goff expressed the park's condolences, saying, "The incident yesterday is tragic, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the victim's family and friends." He stressed the importance of wearing PFDs and paying attention to weather conditions while on the water.
