Authorities have reported that they have found the bodies of an Arizona couple after their vehicle was found stuck in floodwaters 18 miles east of Payson.

On March 22, 2023, at approximately 7:42 a.m., the Gila County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call that there was a vehicle in Tonto Creek at the Bear Flat Crossing. Deputies with the assistance of Tonto Rim Search and Rescue and Hells Gate Fire Department began checking the area. The vehicle was located in the creek approximately 100 yards below the crossing.

Rescue efforts in the area were complicated and extremely dangerous due to the weather conditions and flooding. Payson Police Department responded with their specialized vehicle to transport rescue personnel across flooded creek crossings. The Arizona Department of Public Safety Helicopter was also on scene for the joint search effort.

On Thursday, Gila County authorities announced that the occupants of the vehicle were located deceased. 85-year-old Phon Sutton and 72-year-old Dara Sutton, both local residents from Payson were traveling with their pet.

Our thoughts are with their family and friends during this tragic time.