Utah Teen Dead After Incident at Sand Hollow State Park

Aug. 3, 2023

HURRICANE, Utah — A Utah teen has died after an incident at Sand Hollow State Park. 

Just before 10 a.m. on Thursday, 15-year-old Landon Crook from South Jordan, Utah, was paddleboarding in the south beach area of Sand Hollow State Park with family members when he fell from the paddleboard and did not resurface. 

Those nearby conducted a quick search and called for help. Utah State Parks law enforcement rangers responded to the area, along with Washington County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue and the Hurricane City Police Department. 

First responders located and recovered Crook’s body in 25 feet of water around 12:30 p.m. The water at Sand Hollow State Park had a surface temperature of approximately 80 degrees with relatively calm weather. Crook was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident, and it is not known at this time if one was onboard the paddleboard.

The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to Crook’s family and friends. This incident remains under investigation at this time. 

We would also like to thank all the additional responding agencies who were dispatched or assisted, including the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, Washington County Dive Team, Hurricane City Police Department, and the Division of Outdoor Recreation ROV Team.

With the recreation season now underway, 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. 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.