The Denver Channel
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A former Grand Junction fire chief was identified by the Mesa County Coroner as the man who died after jumping into the Gunnison River without a life jacket.
The body of 59-year-old Rick Beaty was recovered Friday, after several days of searching. He went into the river on September 2.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office says Beaty jumped into the river near Whitewater on Tuesday while on a float trip with friends. Beaty drowned and the coroner determined the cause of death was an accident.
Full story: Former Grand Junction fire chief identified as drowning victim in Gunnison River