Utah Man Dead After Incident at Palisade State Park

June 4, 2023

STERLING, Utah — A Utah man is dead following an apparent drowning at Palisade State Park Saturday evening. 

Just after 5 p.m. on Saturday, Utah State Park law enforcement rangers and Sanpete County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Palisade State Park after receiving reports about a drowning in progress. 

The man, 18-year-old Alejandro Morales from Goshen, Utah, was swimming with friends when the weather conditions began to deteriorate. Those nearby assisted in helping other struggling swimmers but could not reach Morales. When Morales went below the surface and did not reappear, witnesses called 911 for help. 

After searching the area, first responders located Morales in 15-20 feet of water. The water had a surface temperature of approximately 65 degrees. He was not wearing a life jacket when he was recovered. 

An ambulance immediately transported Morales to the Gunnison Valley Hospital where he later passed away. The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to Morales’ friends and family impacted by this incident.

Responding agencies include the Utah Division of State Parks, Sanpete County Sheriff’s Office, Sanpete County Search and Rescue, Gunnison Valley Police Department, and Ephraim City Police Department. We would also like to thank the park visitors who assisted in the immediate search of the area when this incident occurred. 

With the recreation season now underway, outdoor recreators should work diligently to keep safety a top priority. Always recreate with a buddy, wear your life jackets and helmets, and be sure to let somebody know where you are going and when to expect your return. Checking weather conditions and water temperatures is also vital. 

To learn more about Utah’s state parks, safety tips, and laws and rules, visit stateparks.utah.gov.