WASATCH COUNTY, Utah, July 9, 2020 (Gephardt Daily) — A 71-year-old man boating with family and friends at Deer Creek State Park on Wednesday died after he jumped in the water to retrieve his hat.
Daniel Nelson Thomas, from Newport, Tennessee, was between Wallsburg Bay and Rainbow Cove when his hat went into the water. Just before 1:30 p.m., he entered the water to try and retrieve it, according to information from the Utah State Parks website.
“Thompson was not wearing a life jacket and was unable to remain afloat and keep his head above water,” the statement says. “A member of Thompson’s group jumped in to assist, but was unsuccessful. Others in the group then called 911 for help.”
A Utah State Parks law enforcement ranger responded to the area quickly and began the search for Thompson. Search efforts were aided by the Utah Department of Public Safety dive team, Wasatch County Search and Rescue, and Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office.
At about 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, the DPS dive team identified a possible sighting, which the Utah State Parks ROV team confirmed to be that of Thompson’s body, the statement says. His body was resting in 111 feet of water approximately 300 feet from shore.
The Utah State Parks ROV team brought the body up off the reservoir floor to Wasatch County SAR dive team members who brought the body to the surface.
“The Utah Division of Parks and Recreation extends our condolences to Thompson’s friends and family. We would also like to thank the other agencies who assisted in this incident.
“Always keep safety a top priority when recreating in Utah’s water bodies. Always swim with a buddy and wear your life jacket.”
