Tragedy at Lake Pueblo: 43-Year-Old Crystal Bedel Killed in Fatal Boating Accident
PUEBLO, COLORADO — What was meant to be a serene and joyful summer afternoon by the water turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Saturday, July 19, 2025, when a fatal boating accident at Lake Pueblo State Park claimed the life of 43-year-old Crystal Bedel. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond, prompting both mourning and reflection on the importance of boating safety.
According to officials from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), emergency services received distress calls just after 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Reports indicated that a woman had been involved in a serious boating accident near the North Shore of Lake Pueblo. Crystal Bedel, the sole victim of the incident, was quickly retrieved from the water and transported by boat to the North Shore Marina, where first responders attempted life-saving measures. Despite their best efforts, Bedel was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have since confirmed that Bedel, a resident of Colorado Springs, had been on a recreational boating outing with friends when the accident occurred. Though the precise sequence of events remains under investigation, initial accounts suggest that she fell overboard and suffered traumatic injuries consistent with being struck by a propeller or other part of the vessel.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson Sarah Watson released a statement expressing deep condolences to the family and emphasizing the continued commitment to boating safety and thorough investigation. “Our hearts go out to the loved ones of Crystal Bedel during this unimaginably difficult time,” she said. “Lake Pueblo is a place where families come to relax and enjoy nature, and it’s devastating when a day on the water turns tragic.”
Witnesses on the lake described a chaotic and frightening scene in the moments following the accident, with nearby boaters rushing to assist before park rangers and emergency personnel arrived. Many have since taken to social media to share their sympathies and memories of Bedel, a woman described by friends and colleagues as warm-hearted, vibrant, and deeply devoted to her family.
Crystal Bedel was a well-known and respected figure in her community. A devoted mother of two and a longtime employee in the education sector, she was admired for her selflessness, her sense of humor, and her unwavering support of others. “She had this amazing ability to light up every room she walked into,” said longtime friend Megan Lewis. “She lived fully and loved deeply. This is a devastating loss to all of us who knew her.”
Lake Pueblo State Park, one of Colorado’s most popular recreational destinations, sees hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. With more than 4,600 surface acres of water, the lake is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water sports. In the wake of the tragedy, CPW has renewed its call for safety awareness, reminding boaters of the critical importance of life jackets, engine shut-off devices, and remaining vigilant around the water.
This is the second fatal boating incident reported at Lake Pueblo in the past year, underscoring ongoing concerns around water safety. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of alcohol or mechanical failure playing a role in the accident and are urging witnesses to come forward with any information that may aid in the investigation.
In the coming days, a candlelight vigil is expected to be held at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs to honor Crystal’s memory. Community members are being encouraged to wear blue — her favorite color — in remembrance. In lieu of flowers, the Bedel family has requested donations be made to local water safety education initiatives and to the Colorado Springs School Foundation, a cause Crystal supported passionately.
As the sun sets over Lake Pueblo, the waters remain a place of beauty, but now also of sorrow. The memory of Crystal Bedel — a woman of compassion, courage, and grace — will linger not only in the hearts of her loved ones but also in the renewed calls for safety and awareness she now posthumously inspires.