09/17/2026
9/17 1400 Update: Shortly before 2pm, Ephraim was located underwater using specialized underwater technology. He was brought to shore, where he was officially pronounced deceased. Our condolences go out to his family and friends during this very difficult time.
9/17 1000 Update: Regional resources are on scene this morning to assist local responders on the search for Ephraim. Please continue to keep the family, community, and responders in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. It is also greatly appreciated if you can avoid the Lower River Road area of Fromberg so responders can navigate the area safely. Thank you.
2300 Update: Emergency responders are still searching the river area. Search efforts will be scaled back later tonight, but will resume in the morning. We have had a large response of responders on scene, and will bring in additional agencies and personnel as the search continues.
We would like to thank all of those who have provided support for Ephraim and his family. Responding agencies: Fromberg Volunteer Fire Dept., Edgar Volunteer Fire Dept., Bridger Volunteer Fire Dept., Clarks Fork Valley EMS, Red Lodge Fire-Rescue, Laurel Fire Dept., Bridger Police Dept., Red Lodge Police K9, Yellowstone Co. Sheriff's Office, Stillwater Co. Sheriff's Office, and US Water Rescue. A special thanks to Carbon Co. OEM (Office of Emergency Management), NorthWestern Energy, 45 North Cafe and Cotters for their logistical assistance. A big shout out and thanks to our community members and those who showed up from throughout the area to help with search efforts.
***Missing Person - Juvenile*** Multiple emergency responders are searching the Clark's Fork River area just South of Fromberg for a juvenile male who went missing while recreating the river. The male, identified as Ephraim is described as a 13 year old last seen wearing a black t-shirt and pink dinosaur shorts.
WE ARE ASKING PUBLIC TO STAY AWAY FROM THE RIVER at this time, we have multiple rescue members in the water, as well as water craft and other assets.
WE ARE ASKING PUBLIC TO NOT FLY DRONES near the river as we have emergency drones working as well as Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office - AIR 1 helicopter. We can not perform rescue scouting with our drones/aircraft if civilian drones are nearby.
If you would like to help at this time, please reach out to younger children in the area to see if they've heard from Ephraim. You can also walk / drive the streets in the town of Fromberg in attempt to locate him. If you find him, please call 9-1-1.
We appreciate you efforts, and as more info becomes available we will update you. Thank you-
