Operator of vessel 1, deceased 1 and passenger 1 were whitewater rafting on the West Branch of the Penobscot River when the raft entered drop in the rapids causing the raft to submerge and flip.  

All three occupants entered the water when the raft submerged in the whitewater.  Operator 1 and Passenger 1 were swept down river in the current where they later observed Deceased 1 being swept down river past their location.  

Operator 1 and Passenger 1 never saw Deceased 1 again until they left the river to go get help at the campground about a mile down river.  Operator 1 and Passenger 1 discovered that Deceased 1 was pulled from the river at this location and he was deceased.  

All three involved were wearing appropriate PFD's for whitewater activity. There was no known alcohol or drug use.  The raft was located in a pool near McKay power station, about 1/4 mile down river from where the incident occurred.  The raft was undamaged.
WEST BRANCH PENOBSCOT RIVER
Millinocket                   