Motorist dies after crash sends vehicle into the Swan River

An 86-year-old motorist died in Bigfork on Thursday after striking a tree and ending up in the Swan River, officials with the Montana Highway Patrol.

The Ford Ranger was headed southbound on Electric Avenue when it collided with the tree, headed down an embankment and struck a rock in the bed of the Swan River about 3:03 p.m., Sept. 14, officials said. The driver, listed as a Kalispell resident, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Road conditions were described as gravel and dry. The motorist was wearing a seatbelt, authorities said.

Officials are not considering drugs or alcohol as playing a role in the fatal wreck.

Troopers with the Montana Highway Patrol are investigating the deadly crash.

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.