Teen drowns in Spokane River in Post Falls

POST FALLS — A 13-year-old boy died while swimming in the Spokane River on Saturday night.

According to a press release, Post Falls Police Emergency Communications received a report about 9:30 p.m. of a possible drowning near Ironhorse Circle in Post Falls. The initial report indicated that a male teenager had been swimming across the river and was subsequently reported missing.

The Post Falls Police Department responded and was assisted in the search by the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.

During the search, members of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team located the juvenile in the river. Lifesaving efforts were initiated, and the victim was immediately transported to Kootenai Health. Despite those efforts, the juvenile was later pronounced deceased, the release said.

"The Post Falls Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time," the press release said. "Our thoughts are also with everyone affected by this tragic incident."