Missing Paddleboarder Prompts Search at Saguaro Lake
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MARICOPA COUNTY,Ariz. - A large-scale search is underway at Saguaro lake after a 65-year-old paddleboarder was reported missing early Sunday morning. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is leading the operation,focusing on the area near Boat Ramp 1.
Who is Richard Powers?
Richard powers, known to friends as Rick, was last seen at approximately 5:45 a.m. on August 17th. His paddleboard and personal belongings were discovered on the south side of Saguaro Lake, near Captain’s Nook. Powers is described as an athletic and fit retiree who frequently paddleboards on the lake.
He was last seen wearing a lime green hooded sweatshirt, black shorts, and flip-flops. Friends reported him missing when he did not return from his usual early morning training session by 7:00 a.m.
Concerns and Initial Findings
Friends believe Powers may have experienced a medical episode while on the lake. Court fetter, a friend of the missing man, described him as a vibrant member of the local paddleboarding community, known for his humor and active lifestyle. Anybody that’s entered our doors knew Rick, especially on the weekends.He liked being in the mix, liked staying busy. He hated sitting down.
Did You Know? Saguaro Lake, formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam, is a popular recreational area in the tonto National Forest, attracting boaters, paddleboarders, and anglers.
Witnesses expressed regret at not knowing about the situation sooner, hoping they could have assisted in the search. Allegra Bueche, a boater on the lake, stated, I wish I would’ve known that there was somebody missing becuase we could’ve been looking for somebody. I had no idea.But I really hope that they find him. That’s terrible.
MCSO Search Efforts
The MCSO is utilizing multiple resources in the search for Richard Powers. A boat is continuously patrolling the lake, and a three-person team is employing sonar technology to scan the lakebed for any anomalies.Aviation units have also conducted grid searches of the entire area.
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| August 17, 2024 | 5:45 AM | Richard Powers last seen paddleboarding. |
| August 17, 2024 | 7:00 AM | Friends report Powers missing. |
| August 17, 2024 | Ongoing | MCSO initiates search and rescue operation. |
Investigators have located Powers’ cell phone on his paddleboard, providing a potential path of travel. However,the exact moment Powers left the board remains unknown.The lake’s vast size – 10 miles long and 1,200 acres wiht depths reaching 90 feet – presents significant challenges to the search.
Pro Tip: When paddleboarding, always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) and inform someone of your plans, including your route and expected return time.
Safety Considerations on Saguaro Lake
Authorities noted that Powers was known to wear a life jacket, but it was a waist-type that requires manual inflation. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, wearing a life jacket considerably increases survival rates in water emergencies (USCG Boating Safety). The search will continue until Powers is located.
How You Can help
Anyone with data regarding Richard Powers’ disappearance is urged to contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Click here to submit a tip.
What questions do you have about the ongoing search at Saguaro Lake? What steps can be taken to improve water safety in the area?
Saguaro Lake: A Recreational Hotspot
Saguaro Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Arizona. Its clear waters and scenic surroundings attract visitors for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. However, the lake’s size and depth, combined with potential weather changes, necessitate caution and adherence to safety guidelines. Understanding the risks and preparing accordingly is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked questions About the Saguaro Lake Search
- What is the current status of the search for Richard Powers? The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is actively searching Saguaro Lake using boats, sonar technology, and aviation units.
- What type of life jacket was Richard Powers wearing? he was wearing a waist-type life jacket that requires manual inflation.
- how large is Saguaro lake? Saguaro Lake is 10 miles long and 1,200 acres, with depths reaching 90 feet.
- What should I do if I see something suspicious on Saguaro Lake? Contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office instantly.
- Is paddleboarding safe on Saguaro Lake? Paddleboarding can be safe with proper precautions, including wearing a life jacket and informing someone of your plans.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. If you have any information that could assist in the search, please contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
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