A tragic incident occurred at East Canyon State Park in Utah, where a jet skier named Benjamin Paul Rosser, 30, lost his life after crashing into a reservoir rock wall. Rosser, who was from Salt Lake City, was riding the Jet Ski alone when the accident happened on the west side of the reservoir around 7:30 p.m. A nearby fisherman heard the crash, saw the wreckage, and immediately called for help. Rangers responded to the scene by patrol boat and found Rosser had succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. Despite wearing a life jacket, Rosser tragically did not survive the crash. Assistance in the rescue efforts was provided by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and Morgan County Emergency Services.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder for visitors to practice responsible recreation as Memorial Day weekend approaches, when many are expected to visit the area. With the holiday weekend approaching, Utah State Parks is urging visitors to take all necessary safety precautions and be mindful while enjoying outdoor activities. East Canyon State Park, which is located about an hour’s drive northeast of Salt Lake City, is a popular destination for residents and tourists. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and camping. Visitors are encouraged to be vigilant and prioritize safety while partaking in these activities to prevent accidents and tragedies like the one that occurred involving Rosser.
The circumstances surrounding Rosser’s tragic accident are a stark reminder of the importance of following safety guidelines while enjoying outdoor activities on bodies of water. Wearing a life jacket is a crucial measure for ensuring safety while participating in water sports like jet skiing. Despite Rosser being prepared with a life jacket, the impact of the crash proved fatal, highlighting the inherent risks associated with these activities. It is imperative for visitors to East Canyon State Park and other outdoor recreational areas to prioritize safety, especially with the holiday weekend approaching. By adhering to safety protocols and remaining vigilant, individuals can reduce the likelihood of accidents and tragedies while enjoying outdoor activities.
The involvement of nearby individuals, including the fisherman who heard the crash and called for help, underscores the importance of prompt response in emergency situations. The quick action of the fisherman in alerting authorities enabled rangers to respond swiftly and recover Rosser. Collaboration between park visitors, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies is crucial in ensuring effective rescue operations during emergencies. The support provided by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Services was instrumental in the rescue efforts following Rosser’s tragic accident. Their assistance highlights the vital role that local authorities play in maintaining the safety and well-being of individuals visiting recreational areas like East Canyon State Park.
As the investigation into the incident continues, authorities are emphasizing the need for visitors to exercise caution and responsible behavior while engaging in recreational activities. With Memorial Day weekend approaching and an expected influx of visitors to East Canyon State Park, it is imperative for individuals to prioritize safety and adhere to all guidelines to prevent accidents and tragedies. The loss of Benjamin Paul Rosser serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with water sports and the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all visitors. By promoting responsible recreation and raising awareness about the inherent risks involved, Utah State Parks and local authorities aim to prevent similar incidents and tragedies from occurring in the future. Visitors are urged to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, and look out for one another while enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered at East Canyon State Park.
