The Operator of Vessel 1 was paddling downriver; the Operator reported that the current was slightly faster than normal on the river on the day of the incident.  As the Operator continued downstream, she observed a tree in the river and tried to paddle away from it.  Despite the Operator's efforts, the current pulled Vessel 1 directly toward the tree.  Vessel 1 then struck the tree and capsized, ejecting the Operator into the water.  The Operator was able to grab a PFD that had been on Vessel 1 and then swam toward another vessel nearby (another member of the party paddling that day).  After grabbing onto the second vessel, the Operator of the second vessel was able to pull the Victim to shore safely.  Vessel 1 was washed downstream and was never recovered.
Powell