MISSOULA, MT — A woman tragically lost her life after being swept downstream near the Maclay Bridge on Saturday, May 24.
The Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) responded to the incident at approximately 4:50 p.m. in the Target Range area. According to MRFD Battalion Chief Ron Lubke, the woman was attempting to swim across the river when she became fatigued and tried to return to shore. However, the strong current carried her downstream.
A friend who attempted to assist was unable to reach her and sought help from nearby passersby. Emergency crews quickly arrived at the scene, establishing a unified command that included the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks game wardens, and Missoula County Search and Rescue. Life Flight was also called in to assist with an aerial search.
The victim was located underwater shortly before 6:10 p.m. and was recovered from the river minutes later. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name or age as investigations continue.
