Accident Database

Report ID# 31619

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  • Flush Drowning
  • Cold Water
  • Failed Rescue
  • Inadequate Equipment
  • Inexperience
  • Poor Group / Scene Management
  • High Water

Accident Description

Child playing at side of river on Memorial Day, fell into river at high water.  Mother and bystander jumped into rescue, both drowned and swept 4 miles down river to diversion dam where bodies were retrieved.  Kayakers arrived on scene roughly 20 minutes after incident, searched for body of child, but she was not recovered until following day when river flows were cut back dramatically at upstream dam.  4 other bystanders jumped in to rescue but were able to make it back to shore.  Section rated class III, but probably 3+ or 4 at this level.  Attached article doesn't mention girls drowning as body not recovered until next day.

https://people.com/human-interest/4-year-old-girl-falls-provo-river-utah-mother-bystander-die-during-rescue-efforts/

 

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