Joyce
Tuesday
According to the Clearwater County Sheriff”s Office, Paul Joyce left the High Country Inn near Ahsahka, Idaho, at about 10:30 p.m. Friday and was headed to the Best Western in Orofino to spend the night.
The statement from Sheriff Chris Goetz said Joyce was unfamiliar with the area and was given directions to the hotel.
“When he reached the intersection of the Old Ahsahka Grade and View Point Road, he turned left instead of right and began traveling toward the Big Eddy Marina and boat ramp, located on the Dworshak Reservoir,” the statement said.
Goetz”s statement said the vehicle entered the water via the boat ramp and was first seen by a fisherman around 6:30 a.m. Saturday, but was not reported until 5:20 p.m.
An autopsy completed Monday found the preliminary cause of death to be from drowning, according to the statement. The investigation remains open pending follow-up interviews and the toxicology report.
Monday
The Sheriff”s office confirms authorities sent out an attempt to locate for an over due person at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 23. Joyce”s car was found just after 5 p.m. Saturday submerged in Dworshak Reservoir at the Big Eddy Boat Ramp near Orofino. Joyce, 57, of Moscow, was located deceased inside the vehicle. Cause of death is yet to be determined.
Sunday
Paul Joyce, dean of the College of Science, died in a car accident Saturday, according to a university statement.
“Our thoughts and deep condolences are with his family, friends and colleagues during this very sad time,” the statement said. “He was a valuable and well-respected member of our university community; admired by staff and faculty, as well as his students, for his dedication and interdisciplinary efforts. He will be sorely missed.”
Joyce”s death is still under investigation by the Clearwater County Sheriff”s Office.
The Argonaut will continue to cover this story.