The Pueblo Police Department has confirmed the identity of a missing person recovered at Lake Pueblo State Park as Cpl. Stephen Biggs. The off-duty officer, who had been missing since a wakeboarding accident on 27 September, was found submerged in 48 feet of water early on 28 September.
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Authorities from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) initiated a search operation after reports of a boating incident around 5:30 p.m. local time on Sunday. Cpl. Biggs had been participating in wakeboarding activities when the accident occurred, prompting a response from search teams.
In the early hours of Monday, CPW’s marine evidence recovery team employed advanced technology, including towable side-scan sonar, to locate the missing officer. Their search led to the discovery of Biggs’s body in the main channel just east of Peck Creek Cove, approximately 45 minutes later, facilitated by a remotely operated vehicle.
CPW is treating the tragic event as a fatal boating accident. As part of standard procedure following such incidents, the body has been transferred to the office of the medical examiner. This office will conduct an examination to determine the exact cause and manner of death, as the investigation continues.
Joseph Stadterman, the manager of Lake Pueblo State Park, expressed condolences on behalf of the park services. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the individual who died in this tragic incident,” he stated. “We are grateful to our partner agencies and everyone who worked through the night during this difficult recovery.”
Cpl. Biggs had a distinguished career within the Pueblo Police Department, having served since 2010. He was a respected patrol training officer and a member of the department’s S.W.A.T. team. Over the years, Biggs earned significant accolades, including ten letters of commendation, three Medal of Valor awards, and the Distinguished Service award.
Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his colleague. “Working with Stephen was an honour, and his loss is deeply personal,” he remarked in a public statement. “His courage, dedication, and commitment to his fellow officers meant so much to our department. I was proud to serve with him, and I will miss him. My heart is with his family, his friends, and everyone in our department who is grieving his loss.”
In response to the tragedy, the Pueblo Police Department has conveyed its appreciation to Colorado Parks and Wildlife and other agencies involved in the recovery operation. They also announced that Biggs’s patrol car will remain parked at the department’s headquarters as a tribute to his service and sacrifice.
The community has rallied around the department during this difficult time, as tributes and condolences pour in from fellow officers and residents alike. The impact of Cpl. Biggs’s service to his community and dedication to public safety will be felt for years to come.
As investigations regarding the incident continue, authorities are urging individuals engaged in water sports to observe safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future. The loss of Cpl. Biggs is a stark reminder of the risks that accompany recreational activities and the importance of safety awareness.
The Pueblo Police Department and the larger community of Pueblo are now united in their grief as they remember Cpl. Stephen Biggs, a dedicated public servant whose life was tragically cut short. Further updates regarding the investigation and memorial arrangements are anticipated as the situation develops.