Couple Dies After Pickup is Swept Away in Cannonball River

Mott, ND (KFGO/KEYZ) An Oklahoma couple's visit with family in southwestern North Dakota ended tragically Sunday afternoon, May 1, 2022.

The Hettinger County Sheriff's Office reports Oklahomans Patrick and Joan Blake died after their pickup was swept away in the Cannonball River near Mott in southwestern North Dakota.

Officials say the Blakes became trapped in the pickup when they attempted to cross the river at a low point. They say Mrs. Blake called 9-1-1 shortly after 1:00 Sunday afternoon to report that their truck was in the river and water was up to the doors.

Their bodies were recovered by the Dickinson dive team. The pickup was found in water that was about 15-feet deep.

The Blakes, from Arcadia, Oklahoma, were visiting family in Mott.

Photo credit: KFGO News