Paddleboarder drowns at Rockport State Park

Summit County Search and Rescue Photo: Summit County Sheriff

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — On July 21, just before 11:00 p.m., Summit County Utah Search and Rescue located the body of 39-year-old Taylorsville resident Matthew Britton. Britton had been out paddle boarding at Rockport State Park with his dog earlier in the day when he and his dog fell off the paddle board. Several people witnessed the incident, and while the dog was wearing a life jacket, Britton was not. The dog made it safely to shore while Britton was unaccounted for, triggering a multi-agency search effort.

After a coordinated effort with Wasatch County Search & Rescue’s sonar technology and Summit County Search and Rescue’s ROV (remotely operated vehicle), Britton was located underwater approximately 150-200 yards from the shoreline.

The Summit County Sheriffs’ office encourages everyone of all ages to wear life vests when participating in water activities on lakes and reservoirs.

We extended our sincere condolences to the Britton family and friends as they grieve the tragic loss of Matthew.