CORVALLIS, Mont. – A 76-year-old man drowned in the Bitterroot River near Woodside Cutoff in Corvallis on Monday afternoon.
According to Ravalli County Sheriff and Coroner Steve Holton, the drowning victim was identified as Roger Lee Booth of Charleston, West Virginia. He drowned on June 25, 2024, at approximately 1:03 PM, according to the Sheriff Office’s press release.
Booth was fishing on the Bitterroot River with two other men when their raft struck a bridge support pillar and overturned, throwing the three men into the river.
The two other men were able to make it to shore safely.
Responders were able to reach the victim, and they provided emergency medical care. Sadly, though, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the release, responders helped from Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office, Corvallis Volunteer Fire and Quick Response Unit, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Bitterroot Health, and Ravalli County Search and Rescue.
“The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office extends our sincerest condolences to Mr. Booth’s family and friends,” the release said. “Sheriff Holton said river safety is extremely important and the Bitterroot River is filled with obstacles and submerged hazards, making it challenging for rafters and others recreating on the river.”
Also, the river is still deep, and its current is strong. People should use extreme caution when recreating on the river.
The rafting accident is currently under investigation by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.
