Monday, December 15, 2025
48.0°F

Libby man identified in fatal ATV accident

Scott Shindledecker Western News | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 6 years, 3 months AGO
by Scott Shindledecker Western News
| September 10, 2019 1:28 PM

Montana Highway Patrol officals have released the name of a 71-year-old Libby man who died after he was struck by a falling tree while he was riding an all-terrain vehicle.

James Robert Freeburn, 71, of Libby, was traveling northbound on Quartz Mountain Road at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Someone was cutting down a tree and a flagger reportedly tried to notify the man about the falling tree.

According to Montana Highway Patrol, the tree hit the Freeburn’s head and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was not wearing a helmet according to Montana Highway Patrol.

Drugs or alcohol were not suspected in the incident.

Reporter Scott Shindledecker may be reached at 758-4441 or [email protected].

ARTICLES BY SCOTT SHINDLEDECKER WESTERN NEWS

July 31, 2019 2 a.m.

New suspension bridge over Kootenai opens

The new Kootenai River swinging bridge is open and busy with summer tourists streaming across the 220-foot span.

August 2, 2019 2 a.m.

Crews battle fire near Lower Thompson Lake

A wildlife located near where Sanders, Flathead and Lincoln counties meet was human-caused, according to fire officials.

September 25, 2019 12:31 p.m.

David Thompson Search & Rescue celebrates 50 years

David Thompson Search and Rescue is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the group is hosting an open house Friday at Riverfront Park to commemorate the milestone.