Nevada Man Drowns at Sand Hollow Reservoir

Another tragic drowning has occurred at one of Southern Utah's busiest recreation destinations.

Life-Saving Efforts

A 19-year-old man from Nevada died Thursday afternoon after going under the water while swimming at Sand Hollow Reservoir near the dive park, according to the Utah Department of Natural Resources. Bystanders pulled the young man from the water and immediately began life-saving efforts, but he was pronounced dead at the scene despite their efforts. Hurricane Valley Fire and EMS, along with Intermountain Life Flight, responded to the emergency.

Every Possible Chance

Investigators say the man was not wearing a life jacket when the incident happened. The Utah Department of Natural Resources thanked the bystanders who quickly stepped in to help, noting their efforts gave the victim every possible chance. The tragedy comes during another busy summer season at Sand Hollow State Park, one of Utah's most popular outdoor recreation areas. Thousands of visitors flock to the reservoir each week to swim, boat, fish and enjoy the warm weather. Unfortunately, the park has also seen multiple water-related emergencies in recent weeks, underscoring the importance of water safety.

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State park officials continue to remind visitors that wearing a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is one of the easiest ways to prevent drowning, even for experienced swimmers. Fatigue, cold water, wind, and unexpected conditions can quickly overwhelm someone in open water.

The drowning happened near where swimmers and SCUBA trainees often are active, and no lifeguards are on duty.