Cause Of Death Confirmed: Colorado Man Found Months After Leaving Dog in Running Truck Died by Accidental Drowning

Cause Of Death Confirmed For Paul Aragon

Authorities have confirmed that 34-year-old Paul Aragon died from accidental drowning after his body was recovered nearly three months after he went missing. Aragon’s vehicle was first discovered with its engine running and his dog inside, prompting concern and a search that ultimately ended with a tragic discovery.

Timeline Of Events

May 2: A Broomfield police officer located Aragon’s truck parked in a construction area off Edgeview Drive near a hotel at about 3:15 a.m. The engine and lights were on and a dog was inside. Officers searched the area by foot and drone but found no sign of Aragon, who was not a guest at the hotel.

May 3—May 8: Another officer observed the parked truck and again found the dog inside. Concerned for the animal’s welfare, officers transported the dog to a local shelter. Aragon’s mother was notified about the dog on May 8 and then reported her son missing; she said she had last heard from him around April 28 or 29 and that he missed work on May 5.

Aug. 25: Human remains were recovered from Coal Creek in Boulder County near the junction of State Highway 93 and State Highway 128. Subsequent investigation determined the cause of death to be drowning and the manner accidental.

Investigation And Family Response

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office examined possible routes Aragon might have taken and interviewed family, friends and known associates. Officials said they found no evidence of criminal activity and that the investigation is closed, with no further updates expected.

John Alarid, Aragon’s father, described the family’s anguish during the months of uncertainty: "It was the most torturous feeling when we didn’t know nothing. But to be able to at least bring him home and put him to rest is good." He also said telling Aragon’s 13-year-old daughter about her father’s death was especially painful: "She’s just sitting there with this blank look on her face. See your granddaughter with that pain — it’s ugly."

Family and friends held a candlelight vigil in September to remember Aragon. His sister, Jonise Aragon, said he was "such a light and such a good spirit" and expressed hope that understanding what happened would help the family heal, even though it could never replace him.

What Officials Say

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office reiterated that its investigation found no signs of foul play. Aragon was 34 and had been living in his truck; he was believed to be working in the Littleton or Lakewood area at the time he disappeared.

If anyone has additional information relevant to the case, officials encouraged them to contact the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office, though they also noted no further updates are expected.