Accident Database

Report ID# 268

Help
  • Caught in Low Head Dam Hydraulic
  • Equipment Trap
  • Does not Apply
  • One Boat Trip

Accident Description

On June 19th, 1987 a man and his girlfriend launched  a 17 foot canoe on the Arkansas River about five miles above Salida, CO. This 6' high structure is known to be dangerous and is well marked with warning signs. The man convinced the woman the dam was runable. The canoe, predictably, flipped and became stuck in the hydraulic. The woman washed free; the man became entangled in the straps of his Type II PFD and drowned. When he finally washed out the woman made the rescue and summoned help.

Source: Casey Swanson

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