Maricopa County Search for Missing Paddleboarder at Saguaro Lake Ends in Tragic Discovery of Victim
Maricopa County Search for Missing Paddleboarder at Saguaro Lake Ends in Tragic Discovery of Victim
MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. — Authorities in Maricopa County confirmed a heartbreaking conclusion to the search for a missing paddleboarder at Saguaro Lake. After an extensive three-day search, officials located the body of 65-year-old Richard Powers on Wednesday. The incident has left the local community shaken as friends, family, and residents mourn the unexpected loss.
According to reports, Powers was last seen on Sunday afternoon while paddleboarding at the popular recreation area. Witnesses said he was enjoying the lake as usual before suddenly going missing, prompting immediate concern. When he did not return, loved ones quickly contacted authorities, leading to an urgent search operation by local and state agencies.
Search efforts began that same evening, involving the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Lake Patrol, rescue divers, and aerial support. Crews scoured the waters day and night, battling extreme heat and challenging conditions. Each passing day intensified the worry of family members who remained hopeful but feared the worst.
By Wednesday, the sheriff’s office confirmed that divers recovered Powers’ body from the waters of Saguaro Lake. Officials stated that foul play is not suspected and that the incident appeared to be a tragic accident. Formal identification and cause of death will be determined by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The discovery has cast a somber mood over the recreational site, which attracts thousands of visitors each year for boating, fishing, and swimming. While considered safe, Saguaro Lake has seen similar accidents in the past, raising renewed concerns about water safety and awareness among those who frequent the popular destination.
Authorities have reminded the public of the importance of life jackets and water safety protocols. They emphasized that even experienced paddleboarders and swimmers should take precautions, as accidents on the water can happen suddenly and without warning.
Community members have expressed deep sadness over the loss, describing Powers as an active and well-liked individual. Friends recalled his love for outdoor activities and his strong ties to family and community. The tragic event has brought people together in offering prayers, condolences, and support to those grieving.
Local officials have also encouraged visitors to exercise caution when engaging in recreational water sports, particularly in the summer months when heat and fatigue can increase risks. Safety education, they stressed, remains essential in preventing further tragedies at Saguaro Lake and other nearby bodies of water.
For now, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Richard Powers and supporting those most affected by his passing. Grief counselors and community leaders have reached out to the family, offering assistance during this painful time.
The tragedy at Saguaro Lake serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can arise in recreational settings. While loved ones and residents mourn the loss, officials continue to stress safety measures so that future outings at the lake can remain a source of joy rather than sorrow
