News Release

Search Underway for Missing Swimmer

Barry's Landing Boat Ramp

NPS, Jen Prentiss

News Release Date: June 19, 2021

Contact: Jennifer Prentiss, 307-548-5404

Lovell, WY – National Park Service rangers are searching for a 19 year old male swimmer who went missing near Barry’s Landing / Hillsboro parking area. 

At approximately 4:25 p.m. on June 18, the park received a call from Lovell dispatch reporting that a male swimmer went under water and did not resurface.  

Rangers responded to search the area by vessel and the shoreline with the assistance of the Lovell Fire Department, Ambulance, and Big Horn County Sheriff Department and Big Horn County Search and Rescue. After no sign of the male, the search was suspended at 1 a.m. due to low visibility. 

The search resumed the morning of June 19 and the Carbon County Sheriff Department, Big Horn County Sheriff Department and Big Horn County Search and Rescue and US Water Rescue Dive Team from Billings, MT are providing support. The incident is under investigation by the National Park Service.

“Our NPS team is working round the clock with our partners to locate the missing swimmer. Our thoughts and prayers go to the family and friends of our missing swimmer.” Acting Superintendent, Raymond McPadden.

As a reminder, visitors aboard all vessels, including paddleboards, canoes, kayaks and rafts, are required to have a properly fitted life jacket on board for all occupants. Life jackets are highly recommended for all swimmers in the canyon also.

For more information, contact Jennifer Prentiss at [e-mail] or at 307-548-5404.