Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has reported a tragic incident involving a fatality during a private kayaking trip on the Arkansas River, north of Buena Vista. The accident occurred late Tuesday afternoon when a three-boat private kayaking group encountered difficulties in a technical and challenging Class V section of the river.
Witnesses described the harrowing scene, explaining that one kayaker became trapped in a “powerful churning rapid” at the bottom of Pine Creek Rapid. The kayak was overwhelmed by the forceful water, and the trapped man was quickly pulled to shore by other members of his group. Despite their swift efforts to administer CPR while awaiting emergency personnel, the attempts to revive the kayaker were unsuccessful. CPW confirmed that the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
This heartbreaking incident marks another somber event in what has already been a perilous start to June on Colorado waters. Since Saturday, several individuals have been rescued from various water-related accidents, and at least three people have lost their lives.
The tragic death of the kayaker serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with navigating the state’s rivers, especially during periods of high water flow and challenging conditions. CPW urges all outdoor enthusiasts to exercise extreme caution and ensure they are adequately prepared and equipped for the conditions they may encounter.
As the investigation into this incident continues, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased. This tragedy underscores the importance of safety and preparedness for all who venture into Colorado’s beautiful but often unpredictable natural waterways.
