The Polson Police Department is providing a follow-up to the December 4, 2025 press release
issued by the City of Polson Fire Department regarding the recovery of a vehicle submerged in
the Flathead River near the area of 7 th Avenue West and Kerr Dam Road.
Initial Report and Investigation
On November 28, the Polson Police Department received a report of a stolen vehicle from Kobe
Schamp, who stated his 2004 white GMC Sierra pickup truck had gone missing from the South
Shore Lounge parking lot.
Discovery of Submerged Vehicle
On December 3, Polson Police Officers responded alongside the City of Polson Fire Department
and Lake County Search and Rescue to a report of a white pickup truck submerged in the
Flathead River near 7th Avenue West. An underwater drone confirmed the vehicle was
unoccupied. The vehicle was later identified as the same truck previously reported stolen.
Due to weather conditions and daylight limitations, removal of the vehicle was postponed until
the following morning. The recovery was completed with assistance from the City of Polson Fire
Department, Lake County Search and Rescue, Polson Police Department, Lake County Office of
Emergency Management, Tribal Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Services, Polson
Ambulance, and Draggin’ Wagon Towing. No injuries were reported as a result of the crash or
recovery operation. The Polson Police Department would like to thank all agencies involved.
“The discovery and recovery of the submerged vehicle in the Flathead River required careful
planning, specialized resources, and close interagency cooperation. The use of an underwater
drone to confirm the vehicle was unoccupied, followed by a safe and methodical recovery
operation under challenging weather and daylight conditions, highlights the skill and dedication
of everyone involved.” – Chief of Police George Simpson
Environmental Considerations
Due to the vehicle’s path of travel and location in the water, the incident created a negative
environmental impact. The appropriate agencies were notified as part of the response and
recovery process.
“We recognize the significance of this critical resource and its cultural importance to the
Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and as such we place a strong emphasis on
environmental stewardship and respecting the perspectives of the Indigenous people who remain
connected with this land. Safeguarding our environment is an important responsibility, and this
response reflects our commitment to that duty.” – Chief of Police George Simpson
Follow-Up Findings
During the investigation, officers uncovered information that contradicted the initial stolen
vehicle report. On December 9, Mr. Schamp was issued citations for Driving Under the
Influence, Reckless Driving, Failure to Give Notice of an Accident, and False Reports to Law
Enforcement Authorities.
“I am especially proud of the thorough follow-up investigation conducted by our officers, which
uncovered critical information and ensured the facts of the incident were accurately established.”
– Chief of Police George Simpson
City of Polson
Polson Police Department
Chief of Police George
Simpson
(406) 883-8211
Chief@cityofpolson.com
106 1 st St. E. Polson, MT
59860
December 10, 2025