On Saturday, April 22, 2017 at approximately 5:47 pm, Joshua Slade (age 21) was operating a personal water craft on Saguaro Lake near boat ramp 2 when he collided with a 20’ Champion speed/fishing boat being operated by Patrick Grubbs. Both vessels were on plane and the preliminary investigation revealed Slade crossed the path of Grubb causing Grubbs boat to travel over Slade and his jet ski. The impact caused Slade to be ejected off and into the water. After landing in the water he submerged and was not seen again by witnesses.
A friend of Slade’s who was nearby the collision; stated Slade was NOT wearing a floating device at the time of the accident because he was getting one last quick ride in before placing the jet ski on its trailer. Grubbs called 911 prompting the response of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. As MCSO responded Grubbs began searching for Slade near the cash site. Grubbs did not show any signs of impairment. Slade’s friend, stated Slade had not consumed any alcohol either.
A search of the area was conducted by MCSO patrol boats equipped with side-scan sonar and Lake Patrol’s underwater ROV (remote operated vehicle) was deployed and searched several hours and did not locate Slade. The search continued into Sunday with negative results.
On Sunday, April 23, 2017 search efforts continued with MCSO deploying approximately 13 Lake Patrol Deputies during the course of the day that started in the early morning until Slade was located at 10:37 pm with the underwater ROV. At approximately 130am this morning, Lake Patrol Divers successfully recovered Slade on a night dive mission. He was recovered at a depth of 42 feet and bottom temperature of 51 degrees.
The Maricopa County Office of Medical Examiner responded to the Saguaro Lake Aid Station and the decedent was conveyed to them. This case will remain open pending further investigation.