Madison County Sheriff Along With Search & Rescue Locate Missing Youth's Body

From Madison County Sheriff Facebook

MADISON COUNTY, MT – In the evening hours of June 18, 2025, Madison County Communications received a call requesting assistance in locating a missing water recreationist at Harrison Lake (Willow Creek Reservoir). The individual, a 14-year-old male from Gallatin County, had been reported missing during water activities.

A unified command was established between Madison and Gallatin counties, with numerous agencies from across western Montana joining the efforts. After several days of coordinated search and rescue operations, the missing youth was located around 5:30 PM on Monday, June 23, 2025.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the Madison County Coroner are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this event.

The sheriff’s office extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the missing individual. They share in the community’s grief and offer ongoing support during this difficult time.

The agency expresses gratitude to all who assisted in the search, including:Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and Chaplain, Gallatin County Communications, Madison County Communications, Gallatin County Search and Rescue, Ruby Valley Search and Rescue, Madison Valley Search and Rescue, Harrison Volunteer Fire, Madison Valley Rural Fire, Madison Valley EMS, Madison County Emergency Management, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Lewis and Clark County Search and Rescue, Broadwater County Search and Rescue, Flathead County Search and Rescue, Cascade County Search and Rescue, Bozeman Police Department, Life Flight Network, Billings Clinic MedFlight, and DNRC.

Out of respect for the family, Harrison Lake will remain closed until Wednesday, June 25, 2025. The community is asked to keep the child’s family and friends in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. The public is also asked to respect their privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

Officials thank the community and landowners for their patience and support, providing space for the successful locate and recovery efforts.