Paul Brian, an experienced kayaker from the Baltimore Canoe Club, was punching through a wave on West Virginia’s Stony River when he collided with a submerged log. The location was just above the confluence with the North Branch of the Potomac. The bow nosed under the trunk, pinning him underwater with just his head showing. The boat was stuck in a fork in the trunk, and the deck was partly collapsed. The water and air were very cold. Mr. Brian was with 3 experienced paddlers. Each tried to work their way out on the tree limb to help, but could not maintain their footing. One managed to tie a rope to the stern grab loop, but the loop broke off. As time passed, Mr. Brian lost consciousness and the group became exhausted. They returned to their boats and reached Kitzmiller after dark.The next day flow was shut off at VEPCO dam, allowing volunteer firefighters to recover Mr. Brian’s body, still in his boat.