Tragedy on the Salt River: 54-Year-Old Stephan Sweet Dies in Tubing Accident Near Sheep’s Crossing

MARICOPA COUNTY, AZ — What was meant to be a relaxing Memorial Day weekend outing on the Salt River turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy when 54-year-old Stephan Sweet lost his life in a tubing accident near the popular Sheep’s Crossing Recreation Center. The incident occurred Sunday afternoon, casting a somber cloud over the holiday and leaving friends, family, and the broader Arizona community reeling from the loss.

A Holiday Weekend Turns Fatal

Memorial Day weekend is traditionally a time for families and friends to come together in remembrance and recreation, especially at beloved outdoor destinations like the Salt River, a stretch of water known for its scenic beauty and leisurely tubing trips. But amid the sunshine and splashing water, tragedy struck.

Emergency crews were dispatched to the Sheep’s Crossing area around 2:45 p.m. on Sunday after bystanders reported a man in distress in the river. Witnesses told authorities that Stephan Sweet, who had been tubing with a small group of friends, became separated from his float and appeared to be struggling in the water.

Despite immediate efforts by nearby tubers and a swift response from the Rural Metro Fire Department and Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Lake Patrol Unit, Sweet was unresponsive when pulled from the water. Paramedics attempted CPR on-site before rushing him to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Who Was Stephan Sweet?

Stephan Sweet was more than just a name in a tragic headline—he was a father, a husband, a colleague, and a trusted friend. Known by those closest to him as “Steve,” he was described as a kind-hearted and dependable man who brought laughter and warmth wherever he went.

A long-time resident of the Phoenix area, Sweet worked in construction management and was well-respected in his field. Coworkers remembered him as a “pillar of strength and positivity,” someone who went out of his way to mentor younger employees and maintain a calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations.

“He was the kind of guy who would lend a hand to a stranger,” said longtime friend and coworker Daniel Ruiz. “Whether it was a flat tire or a family in need, Steve would step up without hesitation.”

Sweet is survived by his wife, Marla, and their two adult children, Alyssa and Jordan, who are said to be “devastated but grateful for the support pouring in from across the state.”

Safety Questions and Ongoing Investigation

While the exact cause of Sweet’s death has not yet been officially determined, preliminary reports suggest that the strong current may have played a role. The Salt River, while generally calm in popular tubing areas, can still present dangers—especially for those not wearing life vests.

The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Sweet was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident, a detail that has reignited conversations about water safety and regulation.

“Every year we stress the importance of life vests when recreating on the river,” said Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez with the MCSO Lake Patrol. “Conditions can change quickly, and even experienced swimmers can find themselves in trouble.”

Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and that a full autopsy will be conducted by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the exact cause of death. Toxicology results are also pending.

A River of Memories

In the hours following news of Sweet’s passing, an outpouring of grief and condolences appeared on social media. Friends and family shared memories of camping trips, backyard barbecues, and years of laughter.

“He was the life of every party, but he also knew how to listen when someone needed to talk,” said his daughter, Alyssa Sweet, in a Facebook post. “We lost more than a father—we lost our rock.”

A small memorial has since sprung up near the Sheep’s Crossing area, where tubers and hikers have left flowers, candles, and handwritten notes along the riverbank.

Community Response and Water Safety Advocacy

In response to the tragedy, local advocacy groups have renewed calls for increased awareness and education regarding water safety, particularly during holiday weekends when river activity spikes.

“We can’t bring Stephan back, but we can honor his memory by making sure others don’t suffer the same fate,” said Jessica Montoya, director of Arizona River Watch. “This means wearing life jackets, staying sober on the water, and always keeping an eye on your group.”

Arizona River Watch and other organizations plan to hold a public vigil and water safety awareness event next weekend at the Salt River, where residents will have the opportunity to learn basic rescue techniques, receive free safety gear, and pay tribute to lives lost in water accidents.

A Legacy Remembered

Though his life was cut short, Stephan Sweet’s legacy is one of compassion, generosity, and community spirit. His death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.

As Memorial Day 2025 comes to a close, the Sweet family is asking for privacy as they grieve, and has invited those wishing to honor Stephan’s memory to donate to a water safety nonprofit of their choice in lieu of flowers.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.