CHAFFEE COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) — A Colorado Springs man, Jason Beltz, 49, was arrested over the weekend after authorities say he intentionally drove a side-by-side UTV into the Arkansas River while under the influence of alcohol.
The incident occurred Sunday around 12:55 p.m. near the Ruby Mountain Campground in Buena Vista. According to the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), deputies, Buena Vista police, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials responded to a report of a UTV stuck in the river with two people inside.
Upon arrival, CPW officers conducted a swift water rescue to safely remove both occupants from the partially submerged vehicle. A tow truck was later used to recover the UTV, and nearby recreational boaters assisted in the rescue effort.
After investigating, CCSO determined that Beltz had intentionally driven into the river and that alcohol was a factor in the incident. He was arrested and booked into the Chaffee County Jail, with bond set at $1,000 for driving under the influence.
“This is a clear example of how mixing alcohol and driving a motor vehicle is a dangerous combination,” said Sheriff Andy Rohrich. “Both of the occupants are very fortunate to have walked away without any injuries.”
Fortunately, the UTV became lodged on a rock before being swept downstream, averting what could have been a tragic outcome. The passenger in the UTV is not facing any charges, and no injuries were reported.
