Investigation: Bethel student dies while diving – no crime

APPLE VALLEY, Minnesota — The investigation into the case of a Bethel University student who died at work has been completed.

Joe Anderson worked as a diver on a lake in Apple Valley during the summer, removing weeds and debris. One day he never appeared again.

Colleagues found him after a few minutes. Rescue workers took him to the hospital, where he died a few days later.

The Dakota County Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation into his death and said “no criminal activity has been identified.”

The sheriff’s office is still waiting for the results of the toxicology test, which could take up to two months.

Anderson’s family said his diving equipment was working, but he was found in the lake without breathing apparatus.

Minnesota OSHA is also investigating Anderson’s death. In 2022, a worker Removing weeds drowned in Lake MinnetonkaThis resulted in six OSHA violations for the company and fines totaling over $100,000.