16 July, 2025
paddleboarder-dies-while-rescuing-girl-at-utah-reservoir

URGENT UPDATE: A tragic accident unfolded at Silver Lake Flat Reservoir in Utah on Saturday night, claiming the life of 31-year-old Daniel Braga Figueiredo while he attempted to rescue a 12-year-old girl drifting away on an inflatable tube. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. local time, according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.

Figueiredo, who was related to the girl, borrowed a paddleboard and ventured into the reservoir to assist her. Eyewitnesses reported seeing both struggling to transfer the girl from her tube to the paddleboard. As they fell into the water, bystanders rushed in to help. Witnesses later recounted that Figueiredo successfully lifted the girl back onto an inflatable device but then vanished beneath the surface.

Emergency services were alerted within minutes, with multiple agencies responding to the scene. Search efforts were launched immediately, and the body of Figueiredo was tragically recovered at approximately 9:30 p.m..

The Utah County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to the grieving family, highlighting the heroism displayed by Figueiredo in his attempt to save the young girl. Silver Lake Flat Reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, located about 40 miles southeast of Salt Lake City in American Fork Canyon within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident. Community members and outdoor lovers are reminded of the inherent risks associated with water activities and are urged to prioritize safety while enjoying the great outdoors.

As updates emerge from this developing story, the focus remains on the impact of Figueiredo’s courageous actions. Stay tuned for further information on this tragic incident.