Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office Identifies Victim in Fatal Fall at Clark Canyon Reservoir

DILLON, Mont. — The Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office has released additional information regarding the death of a man whose body was discovered on an island at Clark Canyon Reservoir on July 30, concluding that the incident was an accidental fatal fall.

According to the Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a report of a deceased male located on the island at the popular recreation area.

First responders, including personnel from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) and the Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office, located the body of a young adult male on a rocky section of shoreline directly below a well-known cliff diving location.

Investigators observed minor injuries, abrasions, and small marks on the victim. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following an investigation, authorities found no indication or evidence of foul play.

The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Dawson Roylance.

Roylance's body was transported to the Montana State Crime Lab in Missoula, where an autopsy was conducted. According to the Sheriff's Office, the medical examiner determined his injuries were consistent with a fall from an elevated height.

The Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office extended its condolences to Roylance's family and friends.

"The Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dawson Roylance during this difficult time," the agency said in a statement.

Safety Reminder for Cliff Divers

The Sheriff's Office is also reminding the public that cliff diving at Clark Canyon Reservoir and other recreation areas can be extremely dangerous.

Officials noted that changing water levels, shallow water, submerged rocks and other hazards, as well as unstable cliff edges, can quickly create life-threatening conditions.

Anyone choosing to participate in cliff jumping or cliff diving is encouraged to use extreme caution, be aware of changing conditions, and understand the risks before entering the water.

The investigation into the incident has been completed, and authorities have determined the death to be the result of an accidental fall.