Missoula County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the county Search and Rescue team were dispatched early Saturday morning to a remote area north of Frenchtown after a reported UTV accident. Communications Coordinator Jeannette Smith provided the details of the tragic incident that unfolded on a decommissioned road in the Mill Creek/Roman Creek corridor.

Accident timeline

At approximately 7:15 a.m. on October 24, two males were traveling eastward on the abandoned roadway when the driver steered the vehicle to the right side to avoid debris. The passenger‑side tires dropped over the embankment, causing the passenger to exit the UTV in an effort to guide the driver back onto the road. Smith said the driver then accelerated, and the UTV rolled several yards down the steep slope.

Rescue response

Life Flight air‑medics located the crash site and the passenger but were unable to land because of the rugged terrain and dense tree cover. Ground crews from the Frenchtown Rural Fire District, assisted by Missoula County deputies and Search and Rescue volunteers, reached the driver’s location around 9:00 a.m. The driver, 87‑year‑old Lawrence (Larry) L. Exe of Frenchtown, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The passenger was evaluated by fire‑district personnel and, according to Smith, left the scene of his own accord after receiving basic medical assessment.

Community safety reminder

Smith extended heartfelt condolences to Mr. Exe’s family and friends, noting the difficulty of the loss for the close‑knit community. She also used the incident as a reminder that deer and elk season is in full swing, and urged all outdoor enthusiasts to practice strict safety measures. Recommendations include maintaining vehicle control, wearing seatbelts and helmets when operating ATVs or UTVs, securing gear properly, and following firearm safety protocols.

Looking ahead

The Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and local fire districts continue to emphasize public‑safety education, especially as hunters and recreationists take to the backcountry roads during the fall season. Residents are encouraged to report hazardous road conditions promptly and to stay informed about seasonal safety advisories posted by county agencies.

Authorities remind the public that while remote roads can offer scenic access, they also present unique risks. Proper preparation, adherence to safety guidelines, and respect for the rugged Montana terrain can help prevent future tragedies.

Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.