FAIRBANKS, AK — A fatal rafting accident occurred Tuesday on the Chatanika River, approximately 40 miles north of Fairbanks, resulting in one death.
According to Alaska State Troopers, 67-year-old Joye Maple was rafting when their vessel overturned. A companion managed to reach the shore and seek help along Steese Highway after witnessing Maple become trapped in branches along the riverbank.
Wildlife Troopers and Western State Air Rescue were dispatched to the scene, where they recovered Maple’s body from the river. Authorities confirmed her next of kin were present.
Maple’s remains have been sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy, as investigators continue to look into the incident. Further details will be released as available.