A search is currently underway for a man who went missing in the Clark Fork River after failing to resurface on Sunday. The incident occurred in the Alberton Gorge area, and as of late Sunday night, the man’s whereabouts remain unknown.
According to a press release from the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office, the 911 call reporting the man in distress came in at 5:41 p.m. near the Triple Bridges area in Alberton. Mineral County deputies, along with Superior Fire and Rescue, Frenchtown first responders, and Life Flight, were dispatched to the scene.
Despite an extensive search of the river banks, authorities were unable to locate the missing man. The search was suspended late in the evening and resumed the next morning with the assistance of Two Bear Air and swift-water divers from Flathead County.
Zoë Buchli, the criminal justice reporter for the Missoulian, provided an update on the incident. The man, who is reported to be 45 years old, remains missing, and efforts are still ongoing to locate him. The Mineral County Sheriff’s Office has not released any further information regarding the incident.
The search and rescue operation involves multiple agencies working together to cover a wide area along the river. The swift-water divers from Flathead County bring expertise in navigating the challenging conditions of the water. Additionally, the involvement of Two Bear Air provides aerial support in locating any signs of the missing man.
As of now, the circumstances leading up to the man’s disappearance remain unclear. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office. The search will continue until the missing man is located or further updates are provided.
It is a distressing situation for the friends and family of the missing man, who are anxiously waiting for news of his safety. The community is coming together to show support and offer assistance during this difficult time.
The search and rescue operation emphasizes the importance of water safety and caution when engaging in recreational activities near rivers. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by natural bodies of water and the need to exercise proper precautions.
Authorities are urging individuals to be aware of their surroundings, wear appropriate safety gear, and follow all guidelines and regulations when participating in water-related activities. By taking these precautions, people can minimize the risks associated with recreational water activities.
As the search for the missing man continues, the community hopes for a positive outcome. The dedicated efforts of the search and rescue teams, along with the support of the community, provide hope for finding the missing individual and bringing closure to his loved ones.
