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Motorist dies after crash sends vehicle into the Swan River

DERRICK PERKINS | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 1 month AGO
by DERRICK PERKINS
NEWS EDITOR Derrick Perkins serves as News Editor at the Daily Inter Lake. He oversees daily news coverage and works closely with reporters to plan, edit and publish stories across print and digital platforms. Perkins helps coordinate coverage of local government, public safety, business and community developments throughout Northwest Montana. He works with the reporting staff to strengthen journalism while maintaining consistent daily coverage. His role helps ensure the newsroom delivers timely, accurate reporting that readers rely on. IMPACT: Derrick’s work keeps readers informed about the decisions and events shaping their communities every day. | September 15, 2023 9:35 AM

An 86-year-old motorist died in Bigfork on Thursday after striking a tree and ending up in the Swan River, officials with the Montana Highway Patrol.

The Ford Ranger was headed southbound on Electric Avenue when it collided with the tree, headed down an embankment and struck a rock in the bed of the Swan River about 3:03 p.m., Sept. 14, officials said. The driver, listed as a Kalispell resident, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Road conditions were described as gravel and dry. The motorist was wearing a seatbelt, authorities said.

Officials are not considering drugs or alcohol as playing a role in the fatal wreck.

Troopers with the Montana Highway Patrol are investigating the deadly crash.

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or [email protected]m.

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