On Saturday, June 1, 2024, a rafting trip on the Colorado River near Yarmony Rapids, Colorado, ended in tragedy when the raft carrying three men capsized, resulting in one fatality and one missing person. The Grand County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 text at approximately 3:40 p.m. reporting the incident, later confirmed by a Garmin device alert indicating a rafting accident.
Brent Boulter, 56, from Aurora, was found unresponsive, and CPR was administered by bystanders and first responders upon arrival. Unfortunately, Boulter was pronounced dead at the scene. Another man, Thomas Russell, 61, from Littleton, was reported missing after the raft capsized. Despite extensive search efforts involving rafts, ground crews, drones, and a Union Pacific Railroad truck, Russell has yet to be found. The third person managed to reach the shore safely.
According to officials, none of the rafters were wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs) at the time of the accident. Three PFDs were found with the overturned raft, but they were not used when it flipped in the challenging Class III whitewater at Yarmony Rapids. The river’s flow at the time was around 3,200 cubic feet per second, considered medium-to-high level capable of creating dangerous conditions.
Class III whitewater rapids are characterized by higher, irregular waves and narrow passages that often require precise maneuvering. These rapids have stronger currents and may necessitate scouting and a well-trained guide, making them suitable for intermediate, and higher, rafters. The rapids can produce waves that reach up to three feet high and involve more technical navigation than Class I and II rapids.
The search for Russell continues, with authorities urging anyone in the area to report any sightings or information by calling or texting 911. The Bureau of Land Management and various local agencies are leading the search operations, which include rafting and kayaking expeditions from Radium to the Two Bridges area.
This incident marks the second fatality in Colorado’s rafting season this year. On May 30, a woman died on the Poudre River after her raft struck a bridge pylon. Last year, at least 23 people lost their lives in Colorado’s rivers, creeks, and streams, underscoring the inherent risks of whitewater rafting.
Authorities emphasize the importance of wearing PFDs and being aware of river conditions and personal limitations. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) recommends that all rafters wear properly fitted life vests and helmets, especially in higher-class whitewater areas.
Brent Boulter’s body is under the care of the Grand County Coroner’s Office, which will release the cause and manner of his death following an investigation. Meanwhile, the search for Thomas Russell will persist as rescuers hope for a resolution to this unfortunate event.