CLEARWATER COUNTY, ID — Tragedy Strikes as 18-Year-Old Sheldon Medford Dies in Boulder Accident While Camping CLEARWATER COUNTY, Idaho (Gray News) — What was meant to be a peaceful and memorable weekend in the wilderness ended in unthinkable tragedy when a young Idaho man lost his life in a freak accident. Authorities have confirmed that 18-year-old Sheldon Medford, a resident of Lewiston, was killed after being struck and pinned by a falling boulder while camping in the Ahsahka area of Clearwater County on the evening of June 7. According to a statement released by the Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office, emergency dispatchers received a distress call just after 9:30 p.m. reporting a serious accident along Northfork Drive, approximately one mile down the remote stretch known for its rugged beauty and rocky terrain. When first responders arrived at the scene, they found Medford already pinned beneath a massive boulder. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials described the boulder as large and heavy enough that it would have required significant effort and equipment to move. Investigators believe the boulder dislodged from a nearby rock face, likely due to natural erosion or shifting soil, and struck Medford as he was either setting up camp or resting nearby. The incident appears to have been a tragic accident, and no foul play is suspected. “This was a heartbreaking and unforeseeable incident,” said Clearwater County Sheriff Chris Goetz. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Medford family during this incredibly difficult time. Losing someone so young and full of life in such a sudden, tragic way is something no family should have to endure.” Sheldon Medford was well known in the Lewiston community for his friendly spirit, sense of adventure, and kind-hearted nature. Friends and family described him as a young man who loved the outdoors, often finding peace and joy in the forests, rivers, and wild terrain of northern Idaho. He had recently graduated from high school and was preparing for the next chapter of his life—whether that meant continuing his education or exploring career opportunities that would allow him to stay close to the land he loved so dearly. “Sheldon had a deep love for nature,” a family friend said. “Camping, hiking, fishing—those were his passions. He was always the one to suggest a weekend out under the stars. It’s devastating that the very place he found the most peace is where his life ended.” In the days following the incident, tributes have poured in from across the community. At Lewiston High School, where Sheldon had just completed his senior year, students and teachers gathered for a moment of silence. A memorial adorned with flowers, photos, and heartfelt messages now stands near the school’s entrance—a testament to the impact Sheldon had on those around him. Social media has also been flooded with condolences and remembrances, with many friends sharing photos of camping trips, fishing outings, and moments of laughter spent with Sheldon. One post read, “He was the kind of friend who made everything fun. No matter how cold or muddy the trip was, Sheldon made it worth it.” Authorities have reminded outdoor enthusiasts to always be aware of natural hazards when exploring or camping in rocky or mountainous areas. While tragedies like this are extremely rare, they serve as sobering reminders of the unpredictable power of nature. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Medford family with funeral expenses and to help create a memorial in Sheldon’s honor. The family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community. Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the Medford family has asked for privacy as they grieve the unimaginable loss of their son, brother, and friend. As Clearwater County and the surrounding communities continue to mourn, Sheldon Medford will be remembered not only for the way he died—but for the way he lived: with courage, compassion, and an adventurous heart that found joy under Idaho’s open skies.