Man carrying toddler into Montana lake drowns after getting stuck in mud, cops say

A man hoisted a toddler onto his shoulders and started walking into a Montana lake, officials told news outlets. Then he got stuck in mud.

The pair were wading in Spring Meadow Lake State Park on Wednesday, Sept. 28, when the 29-year-old man got stuck in mud and was pulled underwater, the Lewis and Clark County sheriff told the Independent Record.

The child started struggling in the water, and a woman who was on shore with the boy’s mother rushed to save him, KFBB reported.

The group called for help at about 2:30 p.m., and officials rushed to the scene, according to KTVH.

The toddler was rescued, but the man vanished underwater, the news outlet reported.

Officials began rescue efforts for the man, but he was pronounced dead at a hospital, according to the Independent Record. The child and his mother were also taken to a hospital.

Deputies did not disclose the man’s name or the toddler’s condition at the time.

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is in Helena. It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing and bird watching.

“There is no lifeguard on duty at Spring Meadow Lake State Park. Visitors swim at their own risk,” Montana State Parks said. “Complimentary life jackets, ranging in size from infant to adult, are available to use while visiting the park from Memorial day through Labor day.”

This story was originally published September 29, 2022 at 10:47 AM with the headline "Man carrying toddler into Montana lake drowns after getting stuck in mud, cops say."