An 18-year-old from Idaho was killed when a large boulder rolled down a riverbank, crushing him while he was fishing near Ahsahka, Idaho, on June 7, 2025. Sheldon Medford from Lewiston, Idaho, was declared dead at the scene, where first responders found him pinned under the rock.
The Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office received reports of the incident at around 9:35 p.m. MT on Northfork Drive, roughly one mile from where Medford and a friend had been camping along the North Fork of the Clearwater River below the Dworshak Dam.
Emergency responders from several agencies, including the Clearwater County Ambulance Service, Orofino Fire Department, and Nez Perce Tribal Police, arrived to find Medford trapped beneath the boulder.
Sheriff Chris Goetz informed The Lewiston Tribune that the boulder unexpectedly rolled down from the riverbank, striking Medford’s friend on the arm before landing on Medford, who was fishing. The rock measured approximately four feet by four feet by eight feet, according to Goetz.
Goetz noted that this was the first occurrence of such an event at the popular fishing site. The boulder originated from the riverbank itself rather than the hills above, rolling toward Medford as he was near the water’s edge.
Authorities determined the boulder’s descent was a random event, with no prior incidents reported in the area. Sheriff Goetz suggested Medford was likely killed instantly upon impact.
Medford’s friend, Hunter Brown, shared a tribute on social media, reflecting on their shared experiences of hunting and fishing. Brown described Medford as “an awesome guy, always willing to help when you needed help.” Brown highlighted Medford’s willingness to engage in outdoor activities.
Medford’s family has launched a fundraising campaign to assist with funeral expenses, which have not yet been scheduled. Ariel Sackett, Medford’s sister, described the loss as sudden and devastating for the family.
Sackett characterized her brother as more than just a son and sibling, describing him as a best friend, a partner in crime, an avid outdoorsman, a free spirit, and a source of joy and humor. She noted his impact on many lives through his kindness, laughter, and passion for outdoor pursuits.
Medford was fishing and camping with his friend when the incident happened in the Ahsahka area, located approximately 255 miles north of Boise, Idaho. The location along the North Fork of the Clearwater River is known for outdoor recreational activities.
The Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office has notified Medford’s family and is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have classified the death as accidental, with no signs of foul play.
Medford was well-known for his passion for outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing. His death is a significant loss to the Lewiston community and those who knew him through his various outdoor interests.
