Salt Lake City fire chief killed in rafting accident on Green River

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The Salt Lake City Fire Department announced the unexpected death of Captain Michael Harp.

On Saturday, June 29, agency officials said it appears Captain Harp died in a rafting accident on the Green River that he experienced off-duty.

The circumstances of the incident are currently being investigated.

Authorities could not confirm whether this Green River rafting death was the same one that occurred on Thursday, June 27.

A second-generation firefighter following in his father’s footsteps, Captain Harp was a member of the agency for 27 years. He was a member of Utah Task Force 1 and participated in the reconstruction efforts at Ground Zero following the September 11 attacks.

Captain Harp will be remembered for his dedication to service, leadership, compassion and infectious sense of humor.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the entire Harp family,” SLC firefighters said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.”

The department has asked that the family remain private in their grieving process.

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