Krishna Dhakal and his family braved death to flee from Bhutan to Nepal to escape harsh cultural persecution and human rights abuses. He spent most of his life in refugee camps in Nepal, and resettled in Spokane two years ago seeking a better life.

Tragically, Dhakal, 17, likely died in the cold Spokane River, along with two life-long friends.

Foul play does not appear to be involved, police said.

Read the rest of Chelsea Bannach's story here.

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