Clarkston man dies in motorcycle crash near Elk River Saturday

On Saturday, Clearwater County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) received a report of an overdue motorcycle rider.

Natasha Mael reported her fiancé, Steven Raney, 29, Clarkston, Wash., was overdue to return from his participation ride in the Elk River ATV fun run. Mael said Raney had recently bought a new motorcycle and took it out to participate in the fun run. She reported he was an experienced rider, knew the area well and was wearing a helmet during his ride, according to CCSO.

CCSO Deputies and CCSO Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel were dispatched to the area to search for Raney that evening. CCSO SAR continued the search well into the early morning hours without success. At daylight, CCSO SAR continued searching the area Raney was last known to be in. Two Bear Air Helicopter Service of Kalispell, Mont. was contacted and joined the search. Two Bear Air was restricted from flying the previous night due to inclement weather in the area, CCSO reported.

Raney was found deceased, by campers traveling in the area, on Morris Creek Road. CCSO Deputies and Coroner were notified and responded to the scene, CCSO said.

Raney's family and fiancé were notified. He was transported to Pine Hills Funeral Home pending funeral arrangements. The accident investigation is still ongoing, CCSO said.