Alaska State Trooper Josh Bentz of Juneau and residents Andrea Nelson and Dave Folletti spent more than 13 hours on a log in the upper Chilkat River after their boat flipped while moose hunting the night of Sept. 17.
Their ordeal began when engine difficulties prevented them from avoiding a log extending into the river, sometimes called a sweeper. The trio eventually was able to swim to shore and build a fire, where they were rescued by another passing boat the following morning.
Bentz, who previously was stationed in Haines, declined comment. Nelson, who confirmed information about the accident for this story, also declined to provide additional details. Folletti did not return messages.
Ken VanSpronsen, who currently serves at state trooper in Haines, said Folletti was wearing an inflatable coat when the accident occurred. Early this week Folletti’s riverboat was still in the river, VanSpronsen said.
VanSpronsen said he didn’t investigate the accident.
As of press time Wednesday, 19 moose had been taken in the local hunt, including three non-legal kills. The hunt continues through Sunday, Oct. 7.