Montana Horseback Rider Found Dead in Lake After Going Missing on Trail Ride

A Montana horseback rider who went missing during a trail ride was tragically found dead in a lake on Tuesday afternoon, according to the sheriff’s office.

The search for 27-year-old Meghan Rouns came to a heartbreaking end when her body was recovered from 11 feet of water in Upper Hauser Lake, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton told The Post. Rouns had vanished after heading out for a ride with her horse last Friday. She shared a photo on social media around 4 p.m. that day, but her family reported her missing later that night when they hadn’t heard from her.

While authorities do not currently suspect foul play, Dutton, who is also the county coroner, said an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death. Investigators are considering the possibility that Rouns may have fallen into the lake due to strong winds in the area.

Rouns’ horse and cellphone were found during a search on Saturday, but the operation shifted to a recovery effort on Monday.

In a statement, Dutton shared the family’s gratitude: “Her husband, his family, and Meghan’s family wish to thank all of you who helped search for her. You gave them hope and comfort during this difficult time.”

The investigation into the exact circumstances of her death is ongoing.