Alaska News

Marshall couple die after falling into Yukon River

Two people from the Southwest Alaska village of Marshall died on Friday after their vehicle fell into the Yukon River, authorities said.

Frank Coffee, 80, and his wife Angelina, 76, died while launching their boat at 4:55 p.m., according to a state troopers report.

"The river bank at that area was very steep" and Frank was driving the vehicle when it "suddenly went into the river," the report said.

A person dove into the water and pulled the couple out.

"CPR was initiated immediately on scene, and they were then brought to the clinic where CPR was continued," the report said.

The efforts did not work, and the two were pronounced dead Friday evening.

The report said the bodies will be taken to the State Medical Examiner office for an autopsy.

Alex DeMarban

Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or alex@adn.com.

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