Former GJ Fire Chief's Body Recovered From Gunnison River
Mesa County, Colo. -- Earlier this week, Rick Beaty, a Grand Junction resident was recreating on the Gunnison River with friends and went missing while in the river. Extensive search efforts were suspended on the evening of September 3, with river runs continuing daily. Late this afternoon, searchers checking the river for Rick, found his body in nearly the exact location where he was last seen in the water.
Rick's body was recovered from the Gunnison River about 5:30 p.m., by deputies and the Mesa County Coroner, south/east of Whitewater (in the area where searches have been conducted). The Coroner has made official notification to Rick's family this evening. The cause and manner of death is expected to be released in the next 24 to 48 hours. Foul play is not suspected in this case.
Many have inquired about the location of where Rick was found. That location is: 38 degrees, 56 minutes and 29.7 seconds by 108 degrees, 27 minutes and 1.4 seconds. Photo provided for media use with credit given to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office. All photo are of the Gunnison River in the area of Whitewater, Colorado with the Sheriff's Office boat in the water.
Previously released information about this case can be found here.
