One dead, one in critical condition after boating accident in Navajo State Park

Navajo State Park. Courtesy: Colorado Parks and Wildlife

(ARBOLES, Colorado) – A boat collision in Navajo State Park on Saturday, July 6, left one person dead and another in critical condition.

The accident occurred around 2:30 p.m. when a boat collided with an inflatable tube carrying three people that was being towed behind another boat. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the accident.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene and another was flown by helicopter to a local hospital. There were no other injuries. The ages of the two victims were not disclosed.

“Several distress calls were received from other participants on the two boats and were quickly forwarded to our rangers,” said Park Ranger Mitchell Ramm. “The call came in at 2:33 p.m. and I was on site shortly thereafter and found the two victims. The Southern Ute Police Department also came to help. Our condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims.”

The identity of the deceased and the official cause of death have not yet been released by the Archuleta County Coroner.

The park, campgrounds and marinas remain open. The Windsurf Beach was temporarily closed but has since reopened.