UPDATE: The body of 53-year-old Christopher Couch has been located after he was swept away by floodwaters in the Agua Fria River near Interstate 17 and Table Mesa Road on Sunday morning. Authorities confirmed his body was discovered approximately 1.25 miles downstream from where he was last seen.
Emergency responders from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received a distress call about a vehicle caught in the floodwaters on Sunday. A swift-water rescue operation was launched, with crews utilizing both ground and aerial support to search for Couch. While they successfully rescued a female passenger, the search for Couch was initially hampered by severe weather conditions, forcing crews to suspend operations on Sunday.
With improved conditions, search efforts resumed on Monday and continued into Tuesday. Tragically, MCSO confirmed the recovery of Couch’s body on Tuesday afternoon, highlighting the perils posed by rapidly flowing water.
Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant, emphasizing that “this incident is a powerful reminder of the danger of moving water—and the dedication of the men and women who respond when lives are on the line.” Officials strongly advise against attempting to cross flooded or flowing water, underscoring the risks involved.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the sometimes deadly consequences of severe weather events, particularly in areas prone to flooding. The MCSO and local agencies are committed to raising awareness about the dangers associated with flooding and the importance of safety measures.
As search and rescue teams continue to assess the situation, community members are reminded to stay informed and prepared for potential weather-related hazards in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available regarding this tragic incident.
