CFD Diver Drowns Searching For Missing Boater In Chicago River

CHICAGO, IL — A CFD diver died Monday evening looking for a missing boater in the Chicago River. Juan Bucio, 46, was a 15-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department and had been a member of the dive team for the past 11 years, CFD Commissioner Jose Santiago said. Two other divers suffered minor injuries during the rescue attempt, according to news reports.

Bucio was part of a team searching the south branch of the Chicago River at Ashland Avenue for a 28-year-old man, who had reportedly fallen overboard around 8 p.m. CFD officials said while searching for the missing boater Bucio became separated in the water from his dive partner. The 28-year-old man is still said to be missing, ABC 7 Chicago reported.

Other divers pulled Bucio out of the water in grave condition. Video from the scene showed paramedics giving Bucio chest compressions. He was rushed to Stroger Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 10:02 p.m.

The Chicago Fire Department sent out a tweet confirming Bucio's death:

Bucio is the father of two children, ages seven and nine, and has nine siblings.

This story is developing. Check back later for updates.