Poudre River Incident – Second Death

Date:               5/27/2014

What began around mid-day in the Poudre Canyon in Larimer County as a search and rescue attempt for a 14-year old boy; has ended in two deaths. The family that has lost these two young men today resides in the Greeley area.

Authorities were called to the Poudre Canyon around twelve miles west of Ted’s Place shortly after noon. Witnesses reported a 14-year old boy had fallen in the Poudre River while fishing. Responders quickly learned that his 38-year old uncle jumped in to rescue him. Within a couple miles downstream, people along the river pulled out the unconscious uncle and attempted to keep him alive using CPR. The uncle was then airlifted to a local hospital in critical condition.

Approximately 3 hours after the search began, a body was observed about eight miles downstream from the Ouzel Campground where the individuals entered the river. The body was reported to the searchers in the area by the rafter/kayaker that made the discovery. As we believed that the missing boy was now found, the search operation was concluded. No other missing persons had been reported in that area.

Medical personnel have informed authorities that the uncle did not recover and has died this evening.

The Larimer County Coroner’s Office will conduct autopsies tomorrow, Monday, May 27th, to determine the cause and origin of these two tragic deaths. The Coroner’s Office intends to release further information late tomorrow as soon as they are able; this information will include the names of the deceased and additional circumstances as available.