Over the Fourth of July weekend, a 25-year-old man from Providence, Rhode Island, lost his life in a tragic accident at Rocky Mountain National Park. He was swept away by the powerful currents of West Creek Falls on Sunday and his body was recovered later that evening.
On Monday, with the assistance of Northern Colorado Interagency Helitak, the man's body was transported from the falls, situated on the park's east side, to the Upper Beaver Meadows area. It was then transferred to the Larimer County Coroner and Medical Examiner’s Office, who will officially determine the cause of death. The victim's name is being withheld until his family has been notified.
Several agencies, including the Larimer Country Sheriff’s Office, Estes Park Health, the Estes Park Police Department, and Estes Valley Crisis Advocates, supported Rocky Mountain National Park rangers in the recovery operation. The park service emphasized the inherent dangers present in the park, particularly during this time of year when mountain rivers, streams, and waterfalls are exceptionally cold, fast-flowing, and deceptively deep. They urged visitors to maintain a safe distance from the edges of these waterways, noting the slippery rocks and vegetation, and the potential for strong currents to quickly overwhelm individuals.
The park service also stressed the importance of adult supervision for children near water, acknowledging their natural attraction to it.
