Cedar City Man Dies While Paddle Boarding at Quail Creek State Park

August 25, 2024

HURRICANE, Utah — A man died at Quail Creek State Park after falling from a paddleboard Friday afternoon. 

At around 4:30 p.m., 49-year-old Pedro Castillo from Cedar City was paddle boarding out on Quail Creek Reservoir with his wife and daughter, who were camping with him at the park. Strong gusts of wind began to blow, and the three paddle boarders were knocked from their boards. They were not wearing life jackets at the time of the incident. 

A Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation law enforcement ranger was nearby and was able to immediately respond upon seeing the paddle boards blowing away. The ranger and a bystander who offered his help boarded the ranger’s boat and were able to get the wife and daughter on board safely, but found Castillo face down in the water. Upon getting Castillo onboard the boat, CPR efforts immediately began. It is estimated he had been face down for approximately 30 seconds before help arrived. 

Life-saving efforts continued at the boat docks with help from additional rangers from the Utah Division of State Parks and Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. Life flight was also dispatched and arrived. Unfortunately, Castillo was not able to be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 5:17 p.m. 

The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to Pedro Castillo’s family and friends. This incident remains under investigation at this time. We would also like to thank the additional responding agencies that assisted, including the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue, and Intermountain Life Flight. 

Outdoor recreators should work diligently to prioritize safety. Always recreate with a buddy, wear your life jackets and helmets, and let somebody know where you are going and when to expect your return. Checking weather conditions and water temperatures is also vital. Be willing to alter your schedule due to changing conditions and have a plan for what you will do if caught in bad weather. Pack appropriate gear for your activity and stay hydrated while outdoors. To learn more about Utah’s state parks, safety tips, and laws and rules, visit stateparks.utah.gov.