The area once known as Baker’s Quarry is located less than two miles east of Valley Falls. The property was privately owned and is used for fishing and clay shooting.

The two were last seen alive at nine o’clock Wednesday morning.

But it wasn’t until 7:30 Thursday morning that the Sheriff’s Department received a call that something was very wrong.

Rescue crews pack up their gear after pulling two men out of this iced-over former rock quarry.

Vernon Barrow, age 65, and William Slater, 55, were dead by the time rescuers got to them.

Jefferson County Sheriff Roy Dunnaway believe the two were fishing from a hole cut into the ice. The tragedy has one Valley Falls resident wondering why.

“Why were these men out on the ice? You know we’ve had 57 degree weather,” Valley Falls resident Joan Richard said.

Joan’s husband worked with Vernon, also known as Red Barrow, several years ago. The two carpooled back and forth when they both worked at Goodyear.

“It’s sad to hear about anybody that you know and you’ll miss them, too.”

“These two guys, I’m sure, they’ve been around a lot of outdoor stuff,” Jefferson County Sheriff Roy Dunnaway said. “I’m sure they thought it was thick enough.”

At 8:30 Thursday morning, they found the first body along the shore underneath the ice.

“One gentleman, he swam under the ice toward the shore. We spotted him under the ice and he still couldn’t get out.”

Less than an hour later, rescuers pulled out the second body. Deputies estimate the water could be at least fifty feet deep, but believe the melting ice might have just given way.

“It’s not as safe as it was two weeks ago.”

“Everybody is in shock,” Joan said.

The Jefferson County Sheriff office has not determined the exact time of death.