Two California men were killed after a high-speed boat crash along the Colorado River near Topock Gorge just before 5 p.m. on April 7, turning a late afternoon outing into a fatal scene on the water. Deputies found the damaged vessel near the California shoreline. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, and a second was taken to a hospital, where they later died. The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash.
What Investigators Say
Investigators told FOX 10 Phoenix that the vessel, identified as a 2002, 25-foot Daves Custom boat, was heading north at a high rate of speed when it lost control, struck the Arizona shoreline, and then came to rest near the California side of the river. Authorities later identified the victims as 53-year-old James Rutherford Jr. and 33-year-old Noah Welch, both residents of California.
Topock Gorge And River Risks
Topock Gorge is a scenic but tight stretch of the lower Colorado River that regularly draws boaters, kayakers, and anglers. The Havasu National Wildlife Refuge warns that boating on refuge waters "can become dangerous" when boat traffic and speeds ramp up. The refuge reminds visitors to follow all federal, state, and local boating rules to cut down on risk along this busy river corridor.
Mohave County Response And Safety Advice
Mohave County’s Division of Boating Safety patrols the lower Colorado River and responds to incidents on the water, and the sheriff’s office routinely urges boaters to wear life jackets, designate sober operators, and complete boating safety training, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. County officials emphasize that safety courses cover core operational techniques and explain regulatory markings that can help prevent tragedies in heavily used stretches of the river.
What’s Next
Mohave County officials say the crash remains under active investigation and have not released information on whether alcohol, mechanical problems, or any other factors contributed to the wreck, FOX 10 Phoenix reported. Authorities have asked anyone with information about the incident to contact the sheriff’s office as river patrols and rescue crews continue to monitor the area ahead of peak boating season.
