Eight survive after raft capsizes into Crystal River

Eight people survived after their raft flipped on the Crystal River near the Penny Hot Springs on Sunday afternoon, according to the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Deputy of Operations Parker Lathrop said the sheriff’s office received the distress call around 2 p.m., alerting them that a raft had overturned, and several individuals were unaccounted for. 

At least 50 personnel from Carbondale Fire, Aspen Fire, Roaring Fork Fire Rescue, the sheriff’s office, and Pitkin County Open Space and Trails assisted on scene. They set a large perimeter on the river to help contain the party in the swift waters.

The rafters, however, managed to self-rescue and swim ashore with only minor injuries, Lathrop said.

This incident serves as a potent reminder of the unpredictable nature of high water on the Crystal River, and the critical importance of preparation and safety measures, according to the sheriff’s office

“No matter how experienced of a rafter you are, things can go wrong,” Lathrop said. “Make sure all the people you are with have a plan, and all your equipment is worn properly. Be prepared, know where you’re going, and know who you are going with. It’s the water, and it can throw stuff at you.”

Due to the paddlers’ ability to self-rescue, search and rescue crews did not need to enter the river.

The Aspen Times will update this story when more information is available.