48-Year-Old Man Drowns in Chatfield Reservoir

Jefferson County, CO. – At about 5:30 PM on July 2, 2026, Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies responded to Chatfield Reservoir for a reported water rescue involving a missing adult male.

According to the initial investigation, William "Sonny" Macaluso, 48, entered the water after the inflatable tube carrying three children overturned. The children were safely recovered with the assistance of family members and nearby boaters. Mr. Macaluso was seen going under the water and did not resurface. Based on information gathered during the investigation, Mr. Macaluso was an experienced swimmer and was not wearing a life jacket when he entered the water.   

Rescue personnel from South Metro Fire Rescue, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the West Metro Dive Team immediately began an extensive search of the reservoir. Search efforts concluded at approximately 9 PM when it got too dark to continue. The search efforts continued the morning of July 3, and Mr. Macaluso’s body was recovered shortly before noon.

The investigation remains ongoing.