Montana River Fatality Ignites Renewed Focus on Water Safety

The recent recovery of 82-year-old Alan Shaw’s body from the Bighorn River near Hardin has reignited concerns over river safety in Montana and neighboring Wyoming. Shaw was reported missing on July 26 after his boat capsized near Mallards Fishing Access. His companion survived the incident, but Shaw never resurfaced, prompting a multi-day search and eventual recovery operation.

The tragedy was compounded by a wave of misinformation that mistakenly linked Shaw’s death to another ongoing search effort in Wyoming. Social media speculation falsely identified Shaw as Grant Gardner, a 38-year-old Minnesota man who went missing while hiking in the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Gardner last contacted his wife after summiting Cloud Peak on July 29, describing the climb as “more taxing than expected.” Authorities have clarified that the two cases are unrelated and continue to search for Gardner in Big Horn County, Wyoming.

River are Unpredictable

These incidents underscore the unpredictable dangers of river recreation and wilderness travel. Fast-moving currents, sudden weather changes, and remote terrain can quickly turn a peaceful outing into a life-threatening emergency. In Shaw’s case, a simple boating trip ended in tragedy, while Gardner’s disappearance highlights the risks of solo hiking in rugged backcountry.

Loss of a Legend

Bill Ryan of the Upper Missouri Watershed Alliance shared this tribute to Shaw on Instagram: “Our river has lost a friend. Alan Shaw, a loving husband, a doctor, Crimson Tide Fan, fly fishermen, Dad, Grandpa, community advocate, a fierce river guardian, a gardener, a true bearer of the positive spirit... In Fort Smith, he was the driving force that brought in a new sewer system to the town, which helped both the town and protected the beautiful Bighorn River he loved… Serving on UMOWA board was a man that didn’t tip toe around an issue, he was direct, simply asking ‘How can we do this,’ ‘what’s it going to take’ and finish by stating, ‘lets get it done…’

"I admire and respect, if not envy, the life of a man who works for the good of others, can cook a great pizza on the acorn grill, maybe enjoy a sip of good Irish whiskey on the bank of a river while daydreaming only of the chance to battle fish in its waters. We will miss you, Alan Shaw. Thanks from all of us, both myself and the Upper Missouri Watershed Alliance.”

Officials Urge Caution

Local sheriff’s offices and search-and-rescue teams are urging outdoor enthusiasts to take extra precautions:

• Always wear life jackets when boating or fishing.
• Avoid solo excursions in remote areas.
• Share your itinerary with someone and check in regularly.
• Monitor weather and river conditions before heading out.

As communities mourn the loss of Shaw and hold out hope for Gardner’s safe return, the message is clear: Nature’s beauty comes with real risks, and preparation can be the difference between survival and tragedy.

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