Off‑Duty Sheriff’s Sergeant Under Investigation After Fatal Boat Crash on Colorado River

Off‑Duty Sheriff’s Sergeant Under Investigation After Fatal Boat Crash on Colorado River

Incident Overview

• On Friday, July 25, 2025, around 5:30 p.m., a tragic boating collision took place on the Colorado River, just south of the Needles Bridge, along the California–Arizona border

• The incident involved two vessels: a 22‑foot Cheetah deck boat piloted by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Sergeant Bruce Southworth, and an 18‑foot Sanger boat that was adrift on the river

• The smaller boat was struck by Southworth’s vessel. The occupant of the Sanger, 38‑year‑old Weston Stewart of La Verne, father of two, sustained critical injuries, was transported to Colorado River Medical Center, and was later pronounced dead

Suspect & Charges

• The operator, Sgt. Bruce Southworth, age ~43, resident of Yucaipa, was arrested at the scene and booked on suspicion of negligent use of a watercraft while intoxicated causing injury, a felony charge under California Harbors & Navigation CodePreliminary investigation indicates alcohol appears to be a factor in the crash

• Southworth has been placed on administrative leave pending outcome of the criminal investigation

Victim & Community Response

• The victim, Weston Stewart, is remembered by loved ones as a devoted husband, father of two, and beloved family member. A GoFundMe set up in his name reflects outpouring of grief and support from the community

• Family voices and local residents are demanding accountability, pressing for a thorough and transparent investigation

Background: Suspect’s Record

• Sgt. Southworth had previously received major recognition, including a Presidential Medal of Valor in 2018 for rescuing a wounded officer during the 2015 mass shooting at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino—multiple years ago

• The shift from celebrated hero to suspect in a fatal crash has drawn intense scrutiny and disappointment in light of his prior commendations

Investigation Status & Legal Implications

• The case remains under active criminal investigation by county and state authorities.

• Felony charges related to negligent intoxicated operation of a vessel carry potentially severe legal consequences, with prosecution to assess degree of culpability.

• Authorities have encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid the investigation

Context & Concerns

• The waters of the Colorado River near Needles see heavy recreational traffic during peak summer, raising questions about boating safety awareness and enforcement.

• High‑profile involvement of a law enforcement officer in such an incident has spurred broader calls for scrutiny into internal accountability and disciplinary standards.

Summary Snapshot

Looking Ahead

• Prosecutors will determine next steps as toxicology results, witness statements, and marine safety reports become available.

• Southworth may face state-level maritime felony charges and departmental disciplinary proceedings.

• The outcome could have broader implications for accountability protocols in law enforcement, especially when off‑duty officers are involved in serious accidents.