PHOENIX, AZ – A man tragically drowned in the Salt River Saturday morning, highlighting the dangers of swimming in swift currents, especially amid Arizona’s extreme heat. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office reported that the man was seen struggling in the water near an area known as Devil’s Elbow before disappearing beneath the surface.
Emergency services were alerted around 8 a.m. when a 911 call detailed a man, clad in jeans and a black t-shirt, battling the river’s strong current. Responders, including lake patrol deputies, swiftly arrived by foot, boat, and helicopter to search the area.
Eyewitnesses, enjoying a family outing along the shoreline, described the tense atmosphere as authorities requested they vacate the water for safety. Boats and helicopters scoured the river, and by 11:30 a.m., divers recovered the man’s body.
The incident has cast a somber mood over the otherwise lively area, with many visitors unaware of the tragedy until later. Witnesses expressed heightened caution, especially around Devil’s Elbow, a section notorious for its powerful currents.
“It’s devastating,” one visitor said. “It reminds us to keep a close watch on our loved ones, ensuring they enjoy the river safely.”
This marks the second rescue mission for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Lake Patrol in a week. Just days earlier, a 65-year-old man drowned while paddleboarding at Saguaro Lake.
Authorities have yet to identify the man or clarify his activities leading up to the drowning. Questions remain about whether he wore a life jacket, a crucial safety measure emphasized by experts.
A drowning prevention specialist stressed the importance of flotation devices, especially for those not confident in their swimming abilities. “A life jacket is a must in these conditions,” the expert urged, noting the river’s unpredictable currents and hidden obstacles.
The Salt River continues to attract numerous visitors, drawn by its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. However, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks.
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Author: John Nightbridge
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