Tragic Accident Claims Life of Woman at Lake Pueblo State Park
PUEBLO, Colo.— What was meant to be a peaceful afternoon by the water turned into a devastating tragedy on Saturday, July 19, 2025, when a woman lost her life in a fatal boating accident at Lake Pueblo State Park. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) confirmed that the incident involved a powered watercraft and resulted in fatal injuries due to contact with the boat’s engine propeller.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. near Denver Cove on the lake’s North Shore. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene after receiving distress calls about a person being severely injured on the water. The victim, a 43-year-old woman later identified as Crystal Bedel, was transported to the North Shore Marina, where Pueblo West Fire Department personnel attempted life-saving measures. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to revive her.
Crystal Bedel was pronounced dead shortly after 5:00 p.m. by the Pueblo County Coroner’s Office. Her name was not initially released pending notification of next of kin but was confirmed later in the evening by multiple sources familiar with the investigation and her family.
An Afternoon Outing Turns Fatal
Details released by CPW indicate that Crystal Bedel was struck by the engine propeller of a motorized watercraft in what authorities are describing as a tragic accident. While the full sequence of events remains under investigation, initial findings suggest the incident may have involved either a fall from or near the boat while it was still running.
As of this writing, authorities have not filed any criminal charges, and no arrests have been made. CPW emphasized that this appears to be an accident, but added that they are working closely with local law enforcement and investigators to determine the exact circumstances.
“This is a heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts go out to the family and loved ones of the victim,” said a CPW spokesperson in a brief statement. “We are still gathering facts and working to fully understand how this tragedy occurred.”
A Somber Reminder of Boating Safety
Lake Pueblo State Park is one of Colorado’s most popular recreation areas, drawing thousands of visitors each year for boating, swimming, fishing, and other water-based activities. The North Shore Marina, where the victim was brought after the incident, is a central hub of activity and was especially busy over the weekend with warm summer weather drawing families and outdoor enthusiasts to the water.
In the wake of this tragedy, CPW and other officials are urging the public to review safety protocols when operating or riding on powered watercraft.
“This accident serves as a painful reminder of the importance of boat safety—especially around propellers,” said a representative from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary stationed in Colorado. “Propellers can be extremely dangerous, and everyone on the water should be aware of the risks, take appropriate precautions, and always use engine cut-off switches where applicable.”
Community in Mourning
Though not much has been made public about Crystal Bedel’s background, friends and acquaintances have described her as a vibrant, kind-hearted woman who loved the outdoors. Those who knew her say she had a deep appreciation for nature and water activities, and often spent her weekends on Colorado’s lakes.
“She was the kind of person who made everyone around her feel welcome and appreciated,” said a friend of the family, who asked not to be named. “Her death has left a void that can’t be filled. It’s just heartbreaking.”
Grief counselors and victim advocates are expected to work with the family as they begin the difficult journey of processing this sudden and unimaginable loss.
Investigation Ongoing
The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under active investigation by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and local law enforcement. Investigators are expected to examine witness statements, boat operation logs, and safety procedures used during the outing to determine whether any violations occurred or if additional regulations might be needed to prevent similar tragedies.
Officials have not confirmed whether the driver of the boat was a family member, friend, or tour operator. Toxicology testing and standard procedural reviews are ongoing, and CPW has indicated that more information will be released as it becomes available.
Lake Pueblo State Park has not been closed, but CPW has increased patrol presence in the area and is providing safety briefings to boaters and watercraft operators throughout the park.
In Loving Memory of Crystal Bedel
What began as an ordinary summer afternoon at Lake Pueblo ended in tragedy with the loss of Crystal Bedel—a daughter, friend, and member of the community. Her death is a reminder of how precious and fragile life is, and how quickly joy can turn to sorrow.
As the community of Pueblo reflects on this tragic event, there is an outpouring of sympathy and solidarity with Crystal’s loved ones. Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days.
For now, Lake Pueblo remains a place of beauty tinged with grief—forever marked by the memory of a life lost too soon.