Tragedy on the Colorado River: Two Men Drown Near Topock Gorge

Tragedy on the Colorado River: Two Men Drown Near Topock Gorge

TOPOCK, Arizona (August 4, 2025) — A tragic weekend on the water turned fatal as two men lost their lives in a heartbreaking drowning incident on the Colorado River near the scenic Topock Gorge. The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that recovery operations concluded late Sunday after an extensive search, bringing sorrow to families and rattling the local and visiting communities alike.

The incident occurred Saturday afternoon just south of Topock Gorge, a popular yet rugged stretch of the river known for its striking rock formations, winding canyons, and strong undercurrents. According to initial reports from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Division of Boating Safety, the two victims—both adult males—entered the water from a boat around 3:45 p.m. and were seen struggling shortly afterward.

Witnesses say the men appeared to be swimming near their anchored vessel when one began to have difficulty staying afloat. The second man reportedly entered deeper water in an attempt to assist, but both were quickly overcome by the swift-moving current and disappeared beneath the surface.

Emergency responders, including deputies from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dive Team, and Arizona Game and Fish Department, were dispatched immediately. Search and rescue efforts were launched by boat and helicopter, continuing well into the evening. Divers and sonar equipment were deployed the following morning to aid in the recovery efforts.

By Sunday afternoon, both bodies were located and recovered by dive teams. Their identities have not yet been officially released pending next-of-kin notification, but authorities have confirmed that both men were in their early 30s and were visiting the area from Southern California.

Neither man was wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident, according to investigators. Authorities have reiterated the importance of water safety, particularly in remote or unpredictable areas like Topock Gorge, where sudden changes in current, depth, and underwater hazards can catch even experienced swimmers off guard.

“This is a tragic reminder of how quickly things can go wrong on the water,” said Sgt. Kyle Graham of the Mohave County Sheriff’s Boating Safety Division. “The Colorado River is beautiful but can be deceptively dangerous. Life jackets save lives — and we urge everyone to wear one, no matter how confident they feel in the water.”

The Topock Gorge area, located near the Arizona-California border, is part of the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge and is a frequent destination for boaters, kayakers, and campers. Though generally safe for recreation, the gorge is known to have deep pools, strong eddies, and rocky terrain that can make rescue efforts challenging.

This tragic incident marks the third drowning in Mohave County this summer and underscores the importance of observing safety protocols during the peak boating and swimming season.

As news of the drownings spread, messages of condolence have been shared online from friends and family members who are struggling to come to terms with the sudden and devastating loss.

A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the drownings is ongoing, and autopsies will be conducted by the Mohave County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Water Safety Tips from Mohave County Authorities:

• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or swimming in open water.

• Avoid alcohol when engaging in water-based activities.

• Keep an eye on friends and family while in or near the water.

• Know the terrain — the Colorado River has fast-moving currents, sudden drop-offs, and submerged hazards.

• Never attempt to rescue someone without proper flotation or equipment — call 911 immediately.

The community, along with first responders and volunteers, continues to offer support to the families impacted by this tragedy. A memorial service is expected to be held later this week in honor of the two men.

If you or someone you know is grieving after a water-related loss, resources are available through local mental health providers and victim support services.