Drowning victim identified
TAYLOR INMAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 1 month AGO
The bridge over Avalanche Creek just outside the Avalanche Creek campground. (File photo)
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley. IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. | May 31, 2023 2:00 AM
The 28-year-old woman who drowned in Glacier National Park on Monday has been identified as a University of Kansas student who was on a tour of national parks with friends.
According to Glacier National Park officials, Atheer Abdulrahman S. Alquahtani fell off a rocky overhang into Avalanche Creek and was swept into the gorge. Alquahtani was from Saudi Arabia and a resident of Lawrence, Kansas.
She was spotted in the creek near the bridge along the Trail of the Cedars by bystanders who waded into the water to pull her out. They immediately began CPR and sent people to notify park rangers and call 911. Park Service staff, the ALERT air ambulance and Three Rivers Ambulance responded.
Alquahtani was declared deceased by ALERT personnel at the side of the creek, park officials said. Rangers used a litter to carry her out to the Avalanche Lake Trailhead on Going-to-the-Sun Road, where she was then transferred to funeral services.
According to friends traveling with Alquahtani, she had just finished her first year of her master’s degree at the University of Kansas and was on a road trip tour of national parks to celebrate. Friends described her as a risk-taker who loved getting in and being near water.
Law enforcement investigators said there were no indications of foul play. Park officials said the incident occurred off-trail and many visitors take the same risk.
Water related incidents are one of the leading causes of death in Glacier National Park. Visitors are encouraged to take extra precautions when approaching areas with water, especially during spring runoff.
ARTICLES BY TAYLOR INMAN
Lightning strike survivor inducted into Logan Health Children’s ‘Hall of Heroes’
Dr. Tim Stidham at Logan Health Children’s Hospital remembers each of the big unknowns in 16-year-old Mason Garey’s case after the teen was struck by lightning during soccer practice nearly two years ago.
North Forty Resort wants guests to experience true Montana hospitality
At the North Forty Resort, the back 20 acres of the property remain undeveloped, aside from the mile-and-a-half-long walking trail. It is fairly quiet even while being close to the highway, with streets calm enough to walk a dog or wander the grounds with family members.
Discover Kalispell undergoes restructuring after executive director’s retirement
Kalispell Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lorraine Clarno will lead the bureau, along with Managing Director Marissa Mikonis at Discover Kalispell.