SCSO investigating possible drowning

KINGSTON –– The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a reported drowning that took place on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene on Friday afternoon. 

Law enforcement did confirm on Friday evening that they are searching for a missing fisherman who reportedly got caught in a swift current and was pulled under. 

The call came in just before 1 p.m. alleging that an unknown male was seen in a comprised situation on the river near the Bumblebee area. Deputies and emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the area where they searched throughout Friday afternoon utilizing jet skis, drones, and a dive team from Kootenai County to assist in the effort. 

SCSO Capt. Seth Green informed the News-Press that the search would resume on Saturday morning and they would be bringing in cadaver dogs to search a few challenging spots along the river. 

According to law enforcement, this process may take some time – Because of the annual spring runoff, the water is murky, deeper than normal, and moving swiftly. 

For safety reasons, boaters and fishermen should avoid the stretch of river near and below the Bumblebee Bridge until further notice. 

At this time, the SCSO is not releasing the name of the individual involved in the accident.

The Shoshone News-Press will continue to follow the situation and provide updates as they become available.