The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) revealed on Wednesday that a body had been recovered from Saguaro Lake after a multi-day search for a missing paddleboarder there. The body is thought to be that of Richard Powers, a 65-year-old local known for his agility and knowledge of the waters. Powers has been reported missing since early Sunday morning, after failing to return from his daily paddleboarding routine.
Friends of the missing man became concerned when Powers failed to return by his usual 7 a.m. time. His absence indicated probable distress, as he was an experienced paddleboarder who followed his safety measures. According to FOX10 Phoenix, his pals speculated that he had “suffered a medical episode.” MCSO expressed their “heartfelt gratitude” to the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) squad and their canines, who they believe were vital in reducing the search area and eventually discovering Powers.
The body was located near Captain’s Nook when a boater recovered Powers’ paddleboard, still carrying his smartphone and shoes. According to AZFamily, his last sighting occurred at 5:45 a.m. on Sunday near Tonto National Forest boat ramp 1.
Powers’ cause of death is still unknown while the investigation is ongoing, despite the fact that his body has been found. “The cause and manner of death remain under investigation, and no further information is available at this time,” the MCSO stated in a statement obtained by FOX10 Phoenix.
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