36-Year Old Valdez Kayaker Drowns In Tonsina River, Two Miles From The Richardson Highway

Troopers Say His Fellow Kayakers Tried To Resuscitate Him, Unsuccessfully  

Type: Search & Rescue / Death Investigation
Location: Tonsina River

Dispatch Text:

On August 9, 2021 at approximately 1329 hours, Alaska State Troopers were notified that a kayaker had flipped his kayak on the Tonsina River approximately 2 miles from the Richardson Highway. The kayaker, 36-year-old Valdez resident Reese Doyle, was underwater for approximately ten minutes before other members of his kayaking group were able to recover him from the water. The group attempted lifesaving efforts for approximately 45 minutes without success. Alaska State Troopers responded via HELO 3 and recovered Mr. Doyle’s body. His remains are being sent to the State Medical Examiner for further review. Next of kin have been notified.