Off-Duty Colorado Police Officer Found Dead After Wakeboarding Accident at Lake Pueblo
Stephen Biggs — an off-duty Colorado police officer — was found dead hours after going missing while wakeboarding.Pueblo Police Department¿
A Colorado police officer was found dead early Monday morning after disappearing during an off-duty wakeboarding trip at Lake Pueblo State Park, prompting an overnight search involving specialized underwater equipment.
Corporal Stephen Biggs, 41, had served with the Pueblo Police Department since 2010 and was an experienced member of its SWAT team.
Biggs was reported missing at around 5:30 p.m. Sunday after he disappeared while wakeboarding at the state park. Colorado Parks and Wildlife continued searching through the night before recovering his body from nearly 50 feet of water early Monday.
Authorities said an underwater robot was used as part of the recovery operation.
Partner shares heartbreaking memory from hours before tragedy
Following Biggs’ death, his partner, Baylee Carter, shared photographs of the officer smiling aboard a boat before the accident.
In one emotional tribute, Carter recalled Biggs enjoying one of his favorite Jason Aldean songs while out on the water.
“You were surfing your heart out to your favorite, Jason Aldean, and singing ‘Fly Over States’ with the biggest smile on your face,” she wrote, adding that she would always remember him in that moment.
In another message, Carter described Biggs as her protector and the person who had been a source of strength for those around him.
Decorated career with Pueblo Police
Biggs had spent approximately 16 years with the Pueblo Police Department.
During his career, he received 10 letters of commendation, three Medal of Valor awards and a Distinguished Service award, according to the department.
Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller described Biggs’ death as deeply personal for the department.
“Working with Stephen was an honor,” Noeller said, praising his courage, dedication and commitment to his fellow officers. The chief added that he was proud to have served alongside Biggs and extended his condolences to the officer’s family, friends and colleagues.
Tributes left at his patrol car
Following the tragedy, Biggs’ patrol vehicle was placed outside Pueblo Police Department headquarters as a memorial.
Family members and loved ones were seen gathering around the vehicle, embracing one another and leaving flowers and other tributes in his memory.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis also paid tribute to Biggs, recognizing his service and dedication to the state.
The officer’s death has left the Pueblo Police Department mourning a longtime colleague whose career included years of patrol work, SWAT service and multiple awards for his actions on duty.