LAKE POWELL, Utah — A man was found dead Saturday on board a boat at Lake Powell.
Around 10:20 a.m., some boaters saw a boat anchored in a cove near Bullfrog Marina, with one person on board who appeared to be dead, according to the Garfield County Sheriff's Office.
The witnesses reported it to park rangers at Glen Canyon National Recreational Area, who then contacted the sheriff's office. The two agencies, along with the Utah Department of Natural Resources and Kane County Sheriff's Office, responded and recovered the body.
Nobody else was on the boat when the man's body was found.
The deceased man was identified as 77-year-old Bruce Wayne Brinkley. He was from Globe, Arizona. It's not yet known how long he had been dead before he was found.
The sheriff's office said there is an open investigation into the cause of Brinkley's death, and his body has been turned over to the Utah Medical Examiner's Office. However, they said there is no indication of foul play, suicide or an accident.
"Garfield County Sheriff’s Office offers its condolences to the Brinkley family," the announcement read.
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In response to this incident, officials are encouraging residents to avoid recreating alone, especially if they are older.
“In this case, maybe a good tip would be to use the buddy system," said Wade Mathews with the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office. "Go with a friend, have a companion, and if there's medical situations, have that person be aware of the medical situations, and maybe have the proper medications."
Mathews added that there are ways to prepare if you plan to recreate on the water all day.
“Have enough water for hydration, staying hydrated. Have shade available, whether that's some kind of canopy over the boat, or at least a hat and sunscreen and light loose-fitting clothing,” he advised.
Most importantly, officials say you should always tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back.
Mathews said those who recreate frequently may want to look into a Utah Search and Rescue Assistance Card. For more information on the card, visit the state website HERE.
