GRAND COUNTY, COLORADO – On Saturday, June 1, 2024, a tragic rafting accident occurred on the Colorado River, initially reported in the Gore Canyon but later confirmed to have taken place in the Yarmony Rapids area. The Grand County Sheriff’s Office shared information about the incident in a recent press release. At approximately 3:40 p.m., the Grand County Communications Center received a 911 text reporting a subject who was not breathing.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Multiple agencies, including Grand County Search and Rescue, Grand County Sheriff’s Office, and Grand County Emergency Medical Services, responded promptly. Additional support came from the Bureau of Land Management, Eagle County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle County Paramedics, Rock Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Greater Eagle Fire Protection District, and Vail Mountain Rescue. The involvement of multiple agencies was due to the incident occurring near the Grand/Eagle County line.
A report via a Garmin device indicated that there had been a rafting accident and bystander CPR was in progress on an adult male. Unfortunately, the 56-year-old man, identified as Brent Boulter from Aurora, was pronounced deceased by EMS personnel. Another male, aged 61 and identified as Thomas Russell from Littleton, was reported missing after the raft capsized. Despite extensive search efforts utilizing additional rafts, ground crews, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and a Union Pacific Railroad Hi-Rail, the missing individual has not yet been located.
On Sunday, June 2, River Rangers from the Bureau of Land Management and an officer with Colorado Parks and Wildlife conducted additional search operations by raft and kayak from Radium to Two Bridges, but unfortunately, Thomas Russell remains missing. He was last seen wearing a blue fishing shirt and khaki shorts and was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). The Sheriff’s Office urges anyone recreating in the Radium/Rancho Del Rio area to stay vigilant and report any sightings or information by calling or texting 911.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A third individual from the group managed to exit the river safely and has been accounted for.
Authorities continue to monitor and search the area as appropriate. The Grand County Coroner’s Office will release further details on the identity, cause, and manner of death for Brent Boulter in due course.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Lessons Learned and Safety Tips
This unfortunate incident underscores the critical importance of safety precautions while engaging in rafting and other water-based activities. Here are some essential lessons and tips for safe rafting:
Always Wear a PFD: Personal flotation devices are crucial for safety. Ensure everyone in your party wears one at all times while on the water.
Know the Area: Familiarize yourself with the specific sections of the river you will be navigating, including potential hazards like rapids or rocks.
Check Weather Conditions: Weather can significantly impact river conditions. Always check the forecast and be prepared for sudden changes.
Communicate and Have a Plan: Make sure all group members know the plan, including what to do in case of an emergency. Equip yourself with communication devices like a Garmin or other GPS devices.
Use a Guide: If you are unfamiliar with the area or inexperienced, consider hiring a professional guide.
Stay Together: Keep your group together and make sure everyone is accounted for at all times.
Following these guidelines can help ensure a safe and enjoyable rafting experience while minimizing the risks associated with this adventurous activity.
RECENT MOUNTAIN NEWS
