June 7, 2026
DENVER, Colorado — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded at Cherry Creek Reservoir on Saturday after a child who had been floating on the water without a life jacket went under and did not resurface, according to authorities.
Officials with Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed that the incident occurred near the reservoir’s swim beach area in the late afternoon.
According to preliminary details, the child had been on a float with another child around 4:00 p.m. One of the children exited the float in shallow water and safely returned to shore. The other child remained on the float and gradually drifted into deeper water.
At approximately 4:25 p.m., witnesses reported seeing the child slip beneath the surface.
Immediate rescue efforts began as a CPW ranger and nearby park visitors entered the water in an attempt to locate the child. A dive team from South Metro Fire Rescue, which was already conducting training nearby, responded within minutes. Additional support came from West Metro Fire Rescue and the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office.
Despite the rapid response, the search transitioned into a recovery operation as hours passed without locating the child.
After approximately six hours of intensive search efforts, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Marine Evidence Recovery Team recovered the child’s body at around 10:20 p.m.
Authorities have not released the identity of the child.
Officials emphasized the importance of water safety, noting that the child was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. The tragedy has prompted renewed reminders about the risks associated with open water, particularly for children.
The incident remains under investigation.