Traveling nurse drowns while visiting Glacier National Park after falling into creek

WEST GLACIER, Mont. (Gray News) - Authorities say a 26-year-old woman drowned after falling into a creek at a national park in Montana over the weekend.

According to the National Park Service, the woman slipped on slick rocks and fell into Virginia Creek between St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls at Glacier National Park on Sunday.

The woman, later identified as Gillian Tones, was quickly swept up by cold, fast-moving water and went over a series of smaller waterfalls before being pinned underwater by a log for several minutes.

Authorities said other park visitors helped pull her out of the water but despite resuscitation efforts from rescuers and first responders, Tones was pronounced dead at about 7 p.m.

Family members told WTAE that Tones was a free spirit and worked as a traveling nurse, earning an award for her work.

“She was a truly bright light in the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her presence radiated warmth and positivity. She had an uncanny ability to lift the spirits of those around her,” loved ones shared through a GoFundMe. “Her compassion and empathy knew no bounds. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and listening ear.”

Park officials thanked first responders and the other park visitors for their help that day.

Officials also extended their “deepest condolences” to the Tones family.

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