Russell Price of Logan, Utah died on the Selway River on May 28th after his raft capsized in Class V Ladle Rapid. He wore a high flotation life vest but no helmet or wetsuit. He apparently hit his head, becoming stunned and helpless. His friends had gone to the top of the rapid to help him launch, so there was no safety boat. He floated out of sight and was spotted floating face-down fifteen miles downstream.
Source: Idaho Free Press, Rob Lesser, Les Bechdel
The absence of a wetsuit, helmet, and chase boat all contributed to this tragedy. All, are vital for paddlers running big, early-season wilderness water.
