Idaho Falls, ID (September 23, 2025) – A longtime employee of the Idaho Falls Public Works Department died while on duty Saturday, September 20, in what officials are calling an apparent drowning at the city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant.
According to city officials, emergency responders were called to the facility after receiving a report of a potential drowning incident involving an employee. The Bonneville County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that 67-year-old Frank Rogers died at the scene. Rogers had been a veteran employee with the Public Works Department and was well known among city staff.
The exact cause of death remains under investigation. The coroner’s office has stated that no further information, including autopsy reports, can be released at this time due to the ongoing inquiry. However, a spokesperson for the City of Idaho Falls said there is currently no indication of foul play.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and local authorities are expected to conduct further investigation to determine whether safety protocols were followed and to understand the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Workplace Safety Risks in Public Utility Operations
Saturday’s fatal incident at the Idaho Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant is a sobering reminder of the risks public employees face while maintaining critical infrastructure. Wastewater facilities, while highly regulated, can pose significant hazards—ranging from confined spaces and toxic gases to slip hazards and fall risks.
The apparent drowning of Mr. Rogers raises serious safety concerns, particularly regarding hazard mitigation procedures, on-site supervision, and emergency response accessibility within industrial utility settings. In facilities like wastewater plants, even brief exposure to open channels, tanks, or basins can prove fatal if appropriate safeguards are not in place.
Public works departments across the country face challenges in ensuring aging infrastructure and expanding service needs are met without compromising worker safety. This tragic incident may prompt internal reviews of safety procedures and increased oversight at similar facilities statewide.
Frank Rogers’ death is not just a loss to Idaho Falls’ workforce—it is a loss felt across the community he served. As his family, colleagues, and friends mourn, the city is expected to honor his years of service and investigate whether additional safeguards can prevent future incidents.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a workplace accident or occupational fatality, Local Accident Reports can help connect you with the necessary support services—from legal options to emotional recovery resources. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate the aftermath of a workplace tragedy.
