On Friday July 26, authorities in the Glen Canyon National Area (GLCA) received an emergency call of an overturned pontoon boat near Navajo Canyon. Per the joint press release from the Coconino Sheriff’s Office and GLCA, “The 25-foot privately owned pontoon vessel was being towed by another boater, when waves contributed to the towed vessel capsizing. Several of the eleven passengers became trapped under the overturned vessel.
“Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (Glen Canyon) Rangers responded immediately and observed a member of the party on top of the pontoon boat and others in the water, with some of the party unaccounted for. Nearby boaters assisted in retrieving victims out of the water.
“Emergency medical attention was provided on scene by Glen Canyon Rangers and Page Fire Department personnel. Two other patients were transported by Classic Air Medical helicopter and the Page Fire Department ambulance for further medical treatment. As of today, deceased include: Two, 4-year-old males, and Melissa Bean, 72-yearold female.
“The National Park Service would like to thank partners at Big Water Fire for assisting dispatch by receiving fire and medical calls, Kane County Sheriff’s Department for assisting in providing information while Glen Canyon NPS Rangers, Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, and Page Fire Department were responding to the incident.
“The incident is currently under investigation by the National Park Service, Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office. No further information is available at this time.
“The National Park Service and Coconino County Sheriff’s Office express their condolences to the families.”
In addition to the fatalities listed, multiple members of the family occupying the overturned pontoon were hospitalized, one of whom was a seven-year- old girl who is currently in a medically induced coma. The family, who are locals of Kane County, have shared their gratitude for the support in grieving at this time. Some members of the family are rallying a GoFundMe campaign to aid and support their grieving loved ones; the campaign can be found by going to gofundme.com and searching “Cox and Hart families,” and is identified by a picture of Melissa “Missy” Cox Bean and her two grandsons who were tragically lost in the accident.
Per the GoFundMe page, “It is with heavy hearts that we reach out to you in this time of unimaginable loss and need. On Friday July 26, several family members experienced a tragic boating accident on Lake Powell.
“In this devastating incident, the Cox family lost three beloved family members: their cherished grandmother, Missy Hayhurst Cox Bean, and two precious four-year-olds, Gabriel Hart and Zeniff Cox. Our hearts ache as we grapple with this sudden and heartbreaking loss.
“Adding to this unimaginable grief, Audrey Cox (age seven), was taken by air ambulance and is currently in a medically induced coma in the ICU. The road ahead is uncertain and filled with many challenges for all families involved, both emotional and financial. Missy’s husband, Roland “Rock” Bean, is also currently hospitalized and receiving treatment for the injuries he sustained during the accident …
“No amount is too small, and every donation is deeply appreciated. Your generosity will help us honor the memories of our loved ones and provide the necessary care and support for Audrey as she continues to fight and heal in the ICU… We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and generosity. Thank you so much for your support and for sharing this campaign.”
