A tragic incident occurred on the Arkansas River near Buena Vista, where two inflatable kayaks capsized, leading to one fatality. Colorado Parks and Wildlife rangers from the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) and local authorities responded to a CPR in progress call yesterday. As reported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the accident involved two private boaters who found themselves in grave danger while navigating the river's treacherous waters.
According to the same source, one of the kayakers managed to swim to safety, but the other, a 35-year-old man, lost consciousness after his kayak overturned. A quick-acting bystander in a kayak gave chase, pulling the victim to shore and initiating CPR before calling 911. The call for assistance was placed at 3:15 p.m., bringing together a swift response from various agencies, including the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office, Chaffee County EMS, and CPW rangers.
Despite the deployment of life-saving techniques, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. “Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim,” Tom Waters, AHRA park manager, told Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “This appears to be a tragic accident.” It was observed that both boaters had worn the necessary safety gear, including dry suits, personal flotation devices, and helmets suited for that section of the river.
