Man Reported Missing After Going Under While Attempting to Swim Across Mississippi River Near Hidden Falls Regional Park
Published: August 1, 2026.
SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA: A water rescue and search was conducted Saturday evening after a man reportedly went underwater while allegedly attempting to swim across the Mississippi River near Hidden Falls Regional Park in St. Paul.
Emergency crews from the Saint Paul Fire Department, Ramsey County Sheriff's Office, and Saint Paul Police Department were dispatched to the area of the Hidden Falls Regional Park boat ramp around 5 PM on Saturday, August 1, 2026, following reports of a possible drowning.
According to witness accounts and information from law enforcement, the man entered the Mississippi River from the Hidden Falls Regional Park boat ramp and attempted to swim across the river. Several witnesses told authorities they observed the swimmer reach approximately the middle of the river before he went underwater and did not resurface. He was reportedly not wearing a life jacket.
The incident prompted an extensive search involving multiple public safety agencies. First responders searched the area by both land and water, utilizing rescue boats and coordinating efforts along the shoreline in an attempt to locate the missing swimmer. Search operations continued for approximately two hours as crews methodically searched the river near the last known location where the man was seen.
At approximately 7:05 p.m., Saint Paul Fire Department crews were cleared from the scene and returned to service. Responsibility for the ongoing investigation and any continued search efforts was transitioned to the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office. As of Saturday evening, the man had not been located, and authorities have not released his identity or additional information regarding the circumstances leading up to the incident.
The investigation remains active.
The Mississippi River presents significant hazards for swimmers due to strong currents, changing water depths, underwater obstacles, and limited visibility. Public safety officials routinely remind residents and visitors to exercise caution around waterways and avoid attempting to swim across rivers.
Limitless Media News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as additional information becomes available.
Written by: Will Wight.
