Body Discovered at Watson Lake Believed to Be Missing Person; Investigation Underway

Larimer County, CO – Authorities in Larimer County are investigating after a deceased individual was discovered Sunday morning at Watson Lake, a serene and popular recreation site located just northwest of Fort Collins. The discovery is believed to be connected to an ongoing missing person’s case that had mobilized search efforts in the area in recent days.

According to a statement from the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, emergency personnel responded to a call around dawn on Sunday, June 22, 2025, after a passerby reported seeing what appeared to be a body floating near the shoreline of Watson Lake. Deputies, along with search and recovery teams, arrived quickly on scene and confirmed the presence of a deceased person in the water.

Due to the nature of the discovery and the subsequent recovery operation, the lake was temporarily closed to the public for several hours. Officials established a perimeter around the scene while forensic and investigative teams worked carefully to document evidence, secure the area, and remove the body from the water. As of Sunday afternoon, Watson Lake has been reopened to the public.

The identity of the deceased has not been officially released. However, law enforcement sources indicate that the individual matches the description of a person who had recently been reported missing in Larimer County. Investigators are working closely with the family of the missing person to confirm the identity, pending formal notification by the Larimer County Coroner’s Office.

In a brief statement, the Coroner’s Office confirmed that the body had been transported for autopsy and further examination:

“At this time, we are withholding the identity of the decedent until proper notification of next of kin has been made. The cause and manner of death remain under investigation and will be released following a complete forensic evaluation.”

While the Sheriff’s Office has not provided specific details about the circumstances surrounding the death, they emphasized that there is no immediate threat to public safety. Detectives continue to gather evidence and are interviewing individuals who may have last had contact with the missing person, along with reviewing any surveillance footage from the area and speaking with potential witnesses.

Watson Lake is a popular destination for fishing, hiking, and picnicking, especially during the summer months. The discovery has shocked and saddened many local residents who frequent the area for its scenic beauty and calm atmosphere.

One nearby resident who was at the lake early Sunday morning described a somber and surreal scene:

“There were officers everywhere. It was very quiet. You could feel the weight of it—the sadness. We come here to get away from everything, and now this will always be in the back of our minds.”

As the investigation continues, community members are urged to respect the privacy of the family involved and refrain from speculation until official details are confirmed.

The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office expressed its gratitude to the search and recovery teams, park rangers, and first responders who worked diligently throughout the morning to ensure a respectful and thorough recovery process.

Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation is encouraged to contact the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line or submit tips via their official website. Updates regarding the identity of the deceased and further findings will be made public by the Coroner’s Office once they become available.

This tragic discovery marks a solemn day at Watson Lake and reminds the community of the fragile nature of life. Authorities and the community alike now await answers as to what led to this heartbreaking outcome.