Vehicle recovered from Wheatland Reservoir; one person found deceased

A submerged vehicle and its deceased occupant were recovered Sunday afternoon from Wheatland Reservoir No. 1, according to the Platte County Sheriff’s Office.

January 4, 2026Updated: January 4, 2026
News Channel NebraskaBy News Channel Nebraska

WHEATLAND, Wyo. — The Platte County Sheriff’s Office completed its investigation into a submerged vehicle at Wheatland Reservoir No. 1 after locating and recovering the vehicle and its deceased occupant Sunday afternoon.

Deputies were initially dispatched to the reservoir at approximately 9:14 a.m. Sunday following a report of a passenger vehicle in the water. Multiple agencies responded to assist with search efforts, including dive teams, as authorities worked to locate the vehicle believed to be submerged.

According to the sheriff’s office, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the vehicle was located in the reservoir. The vehicle and its occupant were recovered from the water by 5 p.m., bringing the operation to a close.

The sheriff’s office confirmed the occupant was deceased. The individual’s name has not been released and will be withheld until proper notifications are made.

During the operation, roads near the reservoir were closed, and the public was asked to avoid the area while crews conducted search and recovery efforts.

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office thanked assisting agencies, including the Albany County Sheriff’s Office dive team, Torrington Fire Department dive team, Wheatland Fire Department, Wyoming Game and Fish, Wyoming Highway Patrol, Banner EMS, and Platte County Search and Rescue.

No additional details regarding the circumstances leading to the vehicle entering the water were released. The sheriff’s office said further information will be provided if it becomes available.

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