Child Dies After Propeller Incident at Echo State Park

August 13, 2023

Edit: Last name correction to “Greer.”

COALVILLE, Utah — A Utah child has died after an incident at Echo State Park. 

Just before 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, Utah State Parks responded to the Reservoir after receiving reports of a boat accident. 

Walter Greer, a three-year-old from Salt Lake City, was riding a boat with family members when he fell from the vessel. After falling in, Greer was then struck by the propeller at the rear of the boat. 

Utah State Parks law enforcement rangers responded to the area and recovered Greer from the water, but he had already passed away.  He was wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. 

Along with Utah State Parks, responding agencies include, Utah State Bureau of Investigation, Summit County Sheriff’s Office, Utah Highway Patrol, North Summit Flyer District, University of Utah Health AirMed, and Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. 

This incident remains under investigation at this time. 

The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to the family and to all those grieving at this difficult time.