13-Year-Old Montana Boy Dies After Saving His Sister From River During Tubing Trip

A 13-year-old Montana boy has died after going into the Clarks Fork River to help his younger sister during a tubing outing near Fromberg.

Ephraim Dayley, 13, was inner-tubing with his sister on the Clarks Fork River on September 16, 2026, when the two encountered trouble in the water, according to Carbon County Sheriff Josh McQuillan.

Authorities said Ephraim’s sister fell from her tube and began struggling in the river. Ephraim went to help her and was able to get her safely to shore. However, he was unable to make it back to the riverbank himself and disappeared beneath the water.

A major search operation was launched after Ephraim went missing. Multiple local and regional agencies joined the effort, with rescue divers searching the river while officials also used an emergency drone and a helicopter from the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.

Search crews focused on the area of the Clarks Fork south of Fromberg where Ephraim was last seen. Officials warned that the river contained dangerous areas and underwater holes, even though water levels were not particularly high.

The search continued overnight. On September 17, rescue teams located Ephraim’s body underwater using specialized equipment, according to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. He was brought to shore and pronounced dead.

Authorities said the section of river where the search took place was approximately 6 to 10 feet deep. More than a dozen agencies and local businesses assisted in the coordinated search effort.

The tragedy has left Ephraim’s family and community mourning the loss of a young boy who was remembered for his caring nature. Tributes described him as someone who was always willing to help others and bring humor and kindness to those around him.

The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office expressed its condolences to Ephraim’s family and friends as the community continues to grieve.

His final moments have left a heartbreaking story of a young brother who went into the water to help his sister—and succeeded in getting her to safety before he himself failed to return to shore.

Source: Fox 10