BOX ELDER COUNTY — A 51-year-old man is still missing after a swimming incident at Willard Bay State Park, Saturday night.
Robert Mittendorf, from Weber County, was swimming with his son near their boat when a sudden storm swept through the area, Lindsay Higbee with the Utah Department of Natural Resources said.
The two were separated from the boat, but Mittendorf’s son managed to swim back and attempt to get a life jacket for his father. Unfortunately, Mittendorf went under the water and did not resurface.
Utah Division Utah State Parks law enforcement rangers, along with the Willard City Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Division of Outdoor Recreation rangers, Utah Dept. of Public Safety, and Box Elder and Weber County Search and Rescue teams, are also actively assisting in the search operation, which now spans over a mile-wide area. Murky water conditions have also complicated the search. Despite extensive efforts, they have been unable to locate him thus far.
Higbee said that during this challenging time, the Utah Division of State Parks extends their thoughts to Mittendorf’s family and friends. They also thanked the other agencies who have responded and continue assisting in the search effort.
The search operation remains ongoing, and additional updates will be provided as they become available.
Higbee said that with summer in full swing and Labor Day on the horizon, officials remind all visitors to Utah’s state parks to exercise caution and prioritize safety when engaging in water activities. Always recreate with a buddy, wear a life jacket, and stay aware of weather conditions. It’s also essential to be prepared with the appropriate safety gear and ensure someone knows your location and expected return time.
Several people have gone missing in reservoirs this summer, including a Utah State football player who drowned while cliff jumping at Porcupine Reservoir in July. Andre Seldon Jr. was found deceased by search and rescue teams almost seven hours after the 22-year-old was seen going under water and not resurfacing.