NEW RIVER, AZ — Maricopa County deputies have located the body of a man who was swept away by floodwaters in New River on Sunday morning.
Officials say they received a call reporting a vehicle that was swept away in the Agua Fria River near Interstate 17 and Table Mesa Road.
See aerials from the scene Monday morning in the video player below:
Search crews, lake patrol, and aviation units were called to help.
Through a hoist operation, crews were able to rescue a woman passenger, but a man was not located.
On Tuesday afternoon, MCSO announced they located the man's body about 1.25 miles downstream from where he was last seen. He has been identified as 53-year-old Christopher Couch.
Due to severe weather and hazardous conditions, the search for the missing man was suspended on Sunday and resumed on Monday and Tuesday under better conditions.
Officials urge the community 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. ⚠️ Never attempt to cross flooded or flowing water. Stay aware. Stay safe."
