SPRINGDALE, UTAH – September 17, 2015 (Gephardt Daily) – The first of six victims killed in the flash flooding in Zion National Park has been identified as a 21-year law enforcement veteran from Ventura, California. Officials confirm the seventh person still missing is his wife.
A press release from Ventura County Sheriff’s Office said: “On behalf of the family of Steve and Linda Arthur, Sheriff Geoff Dean is saddened to announce the death of Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant Steve Arthur. On Monday, September 14, 2015, Steve Arthur and his wife Linda were hiking in Zion National Park in Utah when a series of flash floods hit the area. On September 16, 2015, Steve was positively identified as one of the victims. Linda Arthur is still missing and a recovery effort is on-going.
“Steve Arthur was a 21-year veteran of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and was assigned to the Camarillo Police Department as the Traffic Supervisor. Steve was known for his tireless efforts working with local youth both on and off duty and possessed a huge compassion for humanity. Steve is survived by his three adult children and seven grandchildren. Please keep the Arthur family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Rangers received a report of a group of seven individuals from Nevada and California canyoneering in Keyhole Canyon shortly before the area flooded on Monday, September 14. Their unoccupied vehicles were located on Monday evening and a search began the next morning of when it was determined that these individuals had not exited the canyon.
The search continues with search and rescue personnel from Zion National Park, Springdale/ Rockville Fire and Sheriff’s Department, and Washington County Search and Rescue.
