Operator of the Vessel and another individual had repaired a hole in the bottom of a boat owned by the operator. They took the boat out on to Smith Lake in order to test it. Shortly after they were away from shore, the boat began to take on water.  When filling with water the boat became unstable and capsized. The water temperature and distance kept them from trying to swim to shore. The men stayed with the boat. They were rescued about an hour later, but both men were weak and suffering from hypothermia. There was a cooler and opened case of beer in the boat with the men. The sheriff''s department said there were some empty cans in the boat, but records were taken of how much the men had to drink.


Both men involved have not been located since the accident to answer further questions. The contact information and address they provided is not accurate. Addresses they provided match with current records.
Kila, MT                      