(Bannock County Press Release, September 27, 2023)
The Bannock County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a death after a man was found in the Portneuf River near Lava Hot Springs.
The incident began around 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 26 when a man was reported missing. Shortly after that, a friend searching for him found the man unresponsive in the Portneuf River near the lower sportsman access point north of Lava Hot Springs.
Deputies from the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office arrived and began CPR while awaiting emergency medical services. Unfortunately, life-saving efforts were unsuccessful and the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The man was likely fishing in the area, as deputies located fishing equipment nearby.
The Bannock County Coroner’s Office is conducting an investigation into the cause of death. The deceased’s identity will be released after next of kin is notified.
Portneuf Air Rescue, Pocatello Ambulance Services, and Lava Hot Springs Ambulance responded to the incident.
