Man Killed In Rafting Accident On Clear Creek
IDAHO SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) - Sheriff's deputies are investigating a deadly rafting accident on Clear Creek.
One man is dead after he left his raft and floated several miles down the rushing water on Saturday. It's not clear if he was thrown from the raft or somehow fell out. The raft didn't tip over.
Other people in the water unsuccessfully tried to rescue the man, identified as Kenneth Barkley, 41, from Brighton.
Highway 6 was closed at mile 260 for the investigation but has reopened.
Barkley's family members were in two rafts on the creek. The raft ahead Barkley's tipped over but those people were able to get to safety.
Additional Information From The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
Jefferson County, Co. - Effective at 8 a.m. on Friday, May 30th, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and the Golden Police Department will limit waterway activities on Clear Creek. These temporary restrictions apply to Clear Creek in unincorporated Jefferson County, as well as those portions of Clear Creek within the City of Golden, including Vanover Park
Water activities prohibited by the order include all single-chambered air inflated devices such as belly boats, inner tubes and single chambered rafts, as well as "body-surfers" and swimming.
Kayaks, whitewater canoes and multi-chambered professionally guided rafts and river boards are exempt, but are encouraged to observe extreme caution due to the safety concerns surrounding swift moving water and floating debris. All of the above users and occupants must have the use of a Type I, Type III, or Type V Coast Guard approved paddling life jacket and a water use designed helmet.
Violators may be issued a summons for a class 2 petty offense, punishable by a fine of one hundred dollars. These restrictions will be strictly enforced in an effort to minimize the risk to those using the waterway.
These temporary water restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
