Update in Search for Missing Fort Collins Man

After a comprehensive search of the area where his car was located, Larry Baker is still missing.

Search crews worked late into the night on June 17 and resumed for a full day and into the night on June 18. More than 60 personnel conducted a methodical search of Watson Lake, 3.5 miles of the nearby Poudre River, and the land surrounding the area. This multi-agency effort included the use of tracking dogs, drones, ground crews, scuba divers, and several different types of underwater search technology. Unfortunately, the extensive effort did not reveal any additional information about Mr. Baker’s whereabouts.

The search in this location has concluded, and Watson Lake State Wildlife Area has reopened for public use. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate this missing person case. Anyone who may have seen Mr. Baker at or near Watson Lake on June 16 or 17 is encouraged to contact LCSO Investigator Napolitano at (970) 498-5360.

(Updated 06/19/2025)

Emergency services personnel are looking for a missing man whose vehicle was located near Watson Lake. 

On Tuesday, June 17, 2025 around 5 p.m., Fort Collins 911 received a report that Larry Baker, 80, was missing. Mr. Baker left his Fort Collins home the previous day around 7:30 a.m. and had not returned, prompting concerns for his wellbeing. His family shared that Mr. Baker is an avid fisherman. Rangers from multiple area agencies searched places that he visits frequently. His vehicle was found parked at Watson Lake State Wildlife Area, which is just west of Laporte.

Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services and Poudre Fire Authority personnel responded to the lake and established a unified command to lead the search effort. Certified team members from Larimer County Search and Rescue (LCSAR) searched the area until midnight. 

They resumed efforts early on June 18 and are continuing to look for Mr. Baker with the assistance of Larimer County Dive Rescue Team (LCDRT) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The search team is using dogs, drones, and sonar equipment to guide this effort. 

Watson Lake access was closed on Tuesday night and remains closed as teams search the area. There is no indication of foul play at this time. 

Mr. Baker is a white male with white hair, facial hair, blue eyes, glasses and is approximately 5’8 tall. He was last seen wearing jeans and a light blue shirt under a striped shirt. Photos are attached. Anyone who may have seen him in the Watson Lake area on June 16 or 17 is asked to contact LCSO Investigator Napolitano at (970) 498-5360.

LCSAR and LCDRT have enough certified volunteers to assist with this effort; no additional volunteers are needed at this time. Community members who want to help are encouraged to share this information and contact LCSO with any details about Mr. Baker’s location.