18-year-old Idaho cheerleader dies after getting caught in logs and being thrown into rapids while tubing on Boise River
An 18-year-old girl passed away after she got stuck in a log jam and was thrown into rapids while tubing on an Idaho river last weekend.
The victim was identified in the obituary as Taylor Paige Smith who is a recent graduate of American Falls High School.
Elmore County sheriff’s officials released a few additional details about the accident that claimed Taylor's life.
The accident took place on the South Fork of the Boise River last Saturday, July 13, reported Idaho State Journal.
They also revealed that a citizen had reported the rafting accident around 3.30pm.
It has been reported that Taylor was tubing with her friends on an Idaho river after she got stuck in a log jam and was thrown into rapids.
The authorities shared that the accident took place in a fast-moving and remote section of the river. She was with three of her friends when she drowned.
A witness called 911 after seeing the group encounter a log jam which had taken over the river.
The police also shared that Smith and at least one more friend were thrown into the water.
Unfortunately, everyone but Taylor made it safely to the shore. She was last seen being pulled under the water by the strong current.
The authorities further added that several searches were made along the banks of the river by air and ground until it got dark. Her body was recovered the next morning when the search resumed.
According to the news release, "The Elmore County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victim of this tragedy." They also expressed their gratitude towards all those who had helped in the search and recovery of Taylor.
Her funeral was set to take place on Saturday at 11.00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ American Falls Stake Center at 111 Church Place in American Falls.
Her obituary read that she enjoyed cheerleading and dancing and taught dance at a local studio. She also loved children and animals. "Her small body housed a big heart filled with empathy and charity for others," her obituary read.