The husband surfaced downstream and was able to swim safely to shore downstream. Reiner was trapped submerged beneath a tree protruding from the island, known as a “strainer.”
Swiftwater rescue teams from Evergreen Fire, Flathead Search and Rescue, and North Valley Search and Rescue all responded to the scene, as did deputies with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. An ALERT helicopter also was called in to assist with the search, and helped locate the body, which was recovered by search and rescue team members. Reiner was pronounced dead on the scene. Both individuals were wearing life jackets, Curry said.
Flathead Valley Bureau reporter Tristan Scott can be reached at (406) 730-1067 or attscott@missoulian.com.