Incident Overview
A 27-year-old woman lost her life after falling through the ice on Alexander Reservoir near Soda Springs. The unfortunate event occurred while she was ice fishing with her brother. The Caribou County Coroner identified the victim as Pamela Yazzie from Chinle, Arizona.
Details of the Accident
The incident was reported to local authorities on Sunday at approximately 2:52 p.m. The Caribou County Sheriff’s Office received information that two individuals had fallen through the ice about two miles east of Soda Springs. Upon arrival, deputies found Yazzie and her 34-year-old brother had fallen through the ice roughly 200 feet from the northern shoreline.
The siblings had ventured onto the ice, which was about four inches thick, to fish. Unfortunately, the ice gave way, leading to the tragic accident.
Rescue Efforts
Emergency responders faced significant challenges as they crossed the unstable ice to reach the victims. They managed to pull Yazzie’s brother from the water and transport him to safety. He was attended to by emergency medical technicians and taken to Caribou Medical Center for further treatment. Yazzie, however, went underwater during the rescue efforts.
The Sheriff’s Office dive team responded promptly, with a dive-certified deputy entering the icy waters to locate Yazzie. Once she was retrieved, she received immediate medical attention and was also transported to Caribou Medical Center. Sadly, Yazzie was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Agencies Involved
The response to the incident involved multiple agencies, including the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, Caribou County Sheriff Search and Rescue team, Caribou County Emergency Medical Service team, Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office/Dive Team, and an Air Rescue Helicopter from Burley. Their coordinated efforts were crucial in the rescue operations.
Community Response
The Caribou County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the professional emergency services provided by the Caribou Medical Center. They extended their condolences to the family and friends of the victims, acknowledging the tragic nature of the accident.
Caribou Coroner Casey Batterton also conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family during this difficult time.
Safety Reminders
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with ice fishing and traversing frozen bodies of water. Authorities urge individuals to exercise caution and be aware of ice conditions, especially during fluctuating weather patterns that can affect ice stability.
Related Coverage
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