– Glacier National Park drowning victim
– Glacier National Park drowning incident victim.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
GREAT FALLS — The serene beauty of Glacier National Park was marred by tragedy on Sunday, June 23, 2024, when 26-year-old Gillian Tones from North Apollo, Pennsylvania, lost her life in a drowning incident near St. Mary Falls on the east side of the park.
According to Glacier National Park staff, the unfortunate incident was first reported when Tones slipped on wet, slick rocks and fell into Virginia Creek between St. Mary and Virginia Falls. The swift and cold-moving water quickly carried her over a series of smaller waterfalls before a log pinned her underwater for several minutes.
Multiple witnesses at the scene immediately called 911, leading to a swift response from park rangers, ambulance personnel, and the ALERT helicopter. Despite valiant efforts to revive her, Tones tragically never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead by ALERT personnel around 7 pm.
The Glacier National Park Conservancy issued a poignant reminder on their website, highlighting the dangers posed by water in the park. They emphasised the importance of exercising extreme caution near water bodies due to the swift currents, slippery rocks, and hidden hazards that have claimed the lives of many visitors in the past.
The park staff expressed gratitude to Glacier County, ALERT, Babb Ambulance, and US Border Patrol for their assistance during the rescue operation. They also extended their thanks to the brave bystanders who stepped in to help during the crisis.
As the investigation into the incident continues, we will provide updates as more information becomes available. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Gillian Tones during this difficult time.
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Glacier National Park drowning victim identified
Victim identified in Glacier National Park drowning incident.
