Man Dies Swimming at Lake Nighthorse

The water temperature at the time of the incident was recorded at approximately 57 degrees. Responders understood that entering the water too early, before narrowing the search area, could jeopardize rescuer safety and reduce the likelihood of successfully locating the victim. Rescue personnel strategically coordinated search efforts before entering the water.

May 18, 2026

From Durango Police:

On May 15, 2026, at approximately 3:34pm, Durango Police Department officers responded to a reported drowning at Lake Nighthorse alongside La Plata County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Durango Fire & Rescue personnel, and Axis Health System CORE team members.

The victim has been identified as Eric Granados-Barcenas, 20, of Dallas, Texas.

Preliminary investigation determined Granados-Barcenas and three friends had been swimming in the lake for approximately 30 to 40 minutes when he became fatigued and was unable to make it back to shore. There was no indication of intoxication contributing to the incident.

Granados-Barcenas had gone underwater for an officially undetermined amount of time before officers arrived on scene.

As officers arrived, they immediately began coordinated rescue efforts. Durango Police officers and La Plata County Sheriff’s Office deputies boarded a citizen’s boat to search the area where Granados-Barcenas was last seen.

The water temperature at the time of the incident was recorded at approximately 57 degrees. Responders understood that entering the water too early, before narrowing the search area, could jeopardize rescuer safety and reduce the likelihood of successfully locating the victim. Rescue personnel strategically coordinated search efforts before entering the water.

During the search, a Durango police officer and a citizen entered the water and located Granados-Barcenas beneath the surface. With assistance from La Plata County Sheriff’s Office deputies aboard the boat, he was brought onto the vessel at approximately 3:46 pm, where CPR was immediately initiated while returning to shore.

Durango Fire & Rescue personnel and medics continued lifesaving efforts at the dock before transporting Granados-Barcenas to the hospital. Despite extensive rescue and medical efforts, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

The Durango Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Eric Granados-Barcenas.

This incident remains under investigation.