Man found dead in Blue Lake

HARRISON — A Spokane Valley man was found dead in Blue Lake near Harrison Friday evening.

Dale G. Renfro, 60, was pulled from the water by first responders about 6 p.m.

"At this time it is unknown if Dale drowned or died as a result of extended exposure to the cold," according to a press release from the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies, the dive rescue team, and fire and medical from the East Side Fire District responded to a report of a person yelling for help from the area of the lake about 4:30 p.m.

"A citizen located a vehicle but no one around it," the release said.

Responders searched the area before finding a man, deceased, partially in the water about 6 p.m.

It was reported by family that Renfro was an avid fisherman and was more than likely attempting to ice fish when he fell through the ice, the release said.

Blue Lake is remote with little public access and "responding to the location by land is difficult especially during the winter months," the release said.

"Even though it is winter and typically the chain lakes near the area of Harrison freeze up, this winter has not been as cold as past winters so far," the release said. "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."