On the evening of Monday, April 27, 2026, 911 dispatch received a report of a boat accident on the Clark Fork River near Clinton, prompting a multi-agency response.
A boat with multiple occupants overturned in the cold, fast moving water. Over 25 personnel from Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Missoula County Search and Rescue, Clinton Fire, Missoula Rural Fire District, Missoula Emergency Services Inc, and LifeFlight Network, worked together to aid those in distress. One boat occupant was unable to make it to shore and was swept downstream. The individual was located using aerial resources. First responders on scene rendered advanced medical care. Despite all efforts, the individual did not survive.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragedy.
Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and Missoula Search and Rescue recognizes and appreciates the quick response from our partner agencies. We also wish to remind those who venture on the water, to wear life jackets and to recreate with great caution. River conditions can be misleading; with spring storms and winter snowmelt, waterways are running high, fast, and cold.
Source: Missoula County Sheriff’s Office press release and photo