Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a boating collision Saturday, July 6, at Navajo State Park that left one person dead and another in critical condition.
The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on July 6 at Navajo State Park near Windsurf Beach, according to a CPW press release.
“Initial reports are that a vessel collided with an inflatable tube carrying three passengers being towed behind another vessel.”
One person, identified by Archuleta County Coroner Brad Hunt as 25-year-old Mikayla Wright, of Durango, was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Wednesday, Hunt explained an autopsy revealed Wright died of blunt-force trauma to the head, with the manner being accidental.
The CPW press release adds another was airlifted to a local hospital. A third passenger was uninjured.
“Multiple 911 calls came in from other parties on the two vessels and were quickly relayed to our rangers,” said Park Ranger Mitchell Ramm via the press release. “The call came to us at 2:33 p.m., and I was on the scene shortly after and found the two victims. The Southern Ute Police Department also responded to help. We extend our sympathies to the families and friends of the victims.”
Ramm indicated CPW Marine Investigators were en route to Navajo State Park at the time the press release was issued Saturday.
Ramm noted the victims were wearing personal flotation devices.
The park, its campgrounds and marinas remained open, according to the press release. Windsurf Beach was temporarily closed, but had reopened by Saturday evening.
The press release adds the waters around the scene of the incident are temporarily closed to allow for the ongoing investigation.
On Monday, July 8, Southwest Region Public Information Officer John Livingston reported that the injured victim is now in stable condition.
He added CPW investigators are still conducting thorough interviews with all parties involved.
No additional updates were available by press time Wednesday.
randi@pagosasun.com
