Fisherman rescued from Echo Reservoir, airlifted in critical condition

ECHO RESERVOIR, Utah — A fisherman was rescued from Echo Reservoir Saturday morning after falling overboard and was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition, authorities said.

North Summit Fire District responded to Echo State Park just after 9:00 a.m. following reports of a fisherman who had gone overboard. A passing boater discovered the man in the water and pulled him to safety before emergency crews arrived.

The patient was treated at the scene and transported in critical condition by medical helicopter to a Salt Lake Valley hospital, according to North Summit Fire District officials.

Sergeant Skyler Talbot of the Summit County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that emergency medical personnel met the rescuer and victim at a boat launch before the helicopter transport.

“Even as air temperatures rise, the water remains cold and can quickly lead to hypothermia. Always wear a life jacket and use extreme caution, especially this time of year,” said Battalion Chief Tyler Rowser of North Summit Fire District in a statement on Facebook.

Fire officials commended the quick-acting bystanders and encouraged public awareness of cold water risks during spring.

The Utah Division of Natural Resources is now handling the investigation.