Harrison, Idaho: On January 29th at around 4:20 pm, several Deputies, the Dive Rescue Team, and Fire and Medical from Eastside Fire responded to the area of N. Brewster Road and Blue Lake Road for a report a person yelling for help from the area of the lake. A citizen located a vehicle but no one around it.
Deputies and Medical arrived on scene and began a search of the area, both in the water and on land. At around 6:00 pm Deputies located a male partially in the water but deceased. The male was identified as Dale G. Renfro a 60 year old male from Spokane Valley Washing. It was reported by family that Dale was an avid fisherman and was more than likely attempting to ice fish when he fell through the ice. At this time it is unknown if Dale drown or died as a result of extended exposure to the cold.
Blue Lake is a remote lake with very little public access. Responding to the location by land is difficult especially during the winter months.
Even though it is winter and typically the chain lake near the area of Harrison freeze up, this winter has not been as cold as past winters so far. Citizens need to use caution when they venture out onto any lakes that appear frozen. It is recommended that you wear a life jacket even on the ice in the event you fall through.
Sheriff Robert Norris
By: Lt. Ryan Higgins
21-04666