POLSON, MT — A local man was recently honored for his selfless actions in rescuing two individuals from the Flathead River last fall. Ryan Hunter was presented with a Letter of Commendation by Polson Police Chief George Simpson during the Polson City Commission meeting on Monday.
The commendation stemmed from Hunter’s courageous response to a harrowing incident on September 28, 2024. A vehicle had veered off Kerr Dam Road and plunged into the river, leaving two people stranded in the water about 100 feet from the shore.
Polson Police officers were the first to arrive at the scene and quickly observed the vehicle’s headlights submerged beneath the surface, with two individuals struggling to stay afloat. Without hesitation, Hunter, who had witnessed the crash, sprang into action. He dove into the river and swam toward one of the victims. In a display of bravery, Hunter managed to bring the individual safely to shore with the assistance of a responding officer who joined him in the water.
Thanks to Hunter’s quick thinking and heroic efforts, the victim was treated for minor injuries and made a full recovery.
During the formal recognition, Chief Simpson praised Hunter for his actions. “Mr. Hunter’s actions that night were nothing short of heroic,” he said. “He demonstrated courage and humanity by entering the waters to save a stranger. It’s acts like his that remind us of the extraordinary capacity for good within our community.”
The Polson Police Department, along with the entire community, expressed their deepest gratitude to Hunter for his brave and compassionate response. A news release from the department emphasized the significance of his actions, calling them a powerful reminder of the bravery and compassion that define Polson.
Hunter’s act of heroism serves as an inspiring example of how ordinary individuals can rise to extraordinary challenges, making a lasting impact on their community.
