Missing Montana Rafter Found Dead In River Near Yankee Jim Canyon Identified As MD Man

PARK COUNTY, MT. (THECOUNT) — The missing Montana rafter found dead Friday morning along the river bank near the north end of Yankee Jim Canyon, has been identified as Mark Everett Shirtliff of Ellicott City, MD.

Shirtliff, 49, went missing while rafting around 10:30. According to Sheriff Scott Hamilton, the rafter was found along the river bank near the north end of Yankee Jim Canyon.

On 7/12/18 at approximately 1940 hours, Park County Dispatch received a report of a person floating in the river near Yankee Jim canyon and the Carbella fishing access area. The individual appeared to be unconscious. Deputies, Fire and SAR members responded to the area. Reach Air responded and flew over the river. Before the boat and boat operator were on scene it got dark. Search activities were suspended due to lack of light and safety concerns. source

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact police at 911.

This story has been update with information provided by family members.