Paddleboarder rescued after becoming trapped under bridge on Provo River

Body cam footage shows paddleboarder trapped against bridge column in Provo River Photo: Utah DNR

WASATCH COUNTY, Utah — A 45-year-old woman was rescued after becoming trapped under a bridge while paddleboarding on the Provo River near the Trestle Bridge on June 28, according to the Utah Department of Natural Resources.

A Natural Resource Law Enforcement Ranger was on patrol in the area around 1:30 p.m. when a bystander alerted him to the emergency. The ranger and the bystander immediately entered the river and found the woman pinned under the bridge structure.

Together, they held the woman’s head above water for approximately 30 minutes in the frigid 55-degree river until she could be freed. Wasatch County Search and Rescue and Emergency Medical Services arrived on the scene to assist and provide medical care to the woman and rescuers.

Al individuals were treated at the scene. No critical injuries were reported.

Officials credited the swift actions of the ranger and bystander for preventing a tragedy.

“They selflessly entered the water, risking their own lives to save another,” the Utah Department of Natural Resources said in a statement.

The incident serves as a reminder of the hazards posed by fast-moving water and river obstacles, especially during summer recreation months. State officials urge the public to take safety precautions, including wearing a properly fitted life jacket, researching river conditions.

More information on river safety can be found at boating.utah.gov.