Teen whose brother drowned in Pend Oreille River critical, on life support

A 17-year-old boy whose 11-year-old brother drowned trying to save him in the Pend Oreille River remains on life support in critical condition, according to his sister’s Facebook page.

Bonner County sheriff’s deputies were called to Morton Slough boat launch area at about 4:15 p.m. Tuesday in response to a report that a mother, Kathy Grasser, was swimming with her two children but could not locate either child in the water, according to a Bonner County Sheriff’s news release.

The mother told deputies that the brothers were inexperienced swimmers and took off their life jackets, believing the water was shallow. She said the 17-year-old, Isaac Grasser, began to experience difficulties staying afloat and started to panic.

The mother entered the water and tried to help, but her son started to pull her under. She swam to shore and screamed for help.

Michael Grasser, 11, then tried to assist his brother and started to struggle as well, deputies said. People in the area heard the mother’s cries for help and were able to locate Isaac Grasser and pull him to shore. They immediately began CPR, deputies said.

A dive team later found the younger brother in about 6 to 7 feet of water.

The boys’ family issued the following statement:

“We are in an unimaginable amount of grief with the loss of our youngest son and brother, Michael, and we are praying intently for our older son and only brother left, Isaac, for God’s will and strength in this situation. We are hurting but our faith in God is carrying us through this time. We appreciate the massive amounts of love and support we have been shown constantly every hour.”

Reporter Jonathan Glover contributed to this story.