Libby man identified in fatal ATV accident

Montana Highway Patrol officals have released the name of a 71-year-old Libby man who died after he was struck by a falling tree while he was riding an all-terrain vehicle.

James Robert Freeburn, 71, of Libby, was traveling northbound on Quartz Mountain Road at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Someone was cutting down a tree and a flagger reportedly tried to notify the man about the falling tree.

According to Montana Highway Patrol, the tree hit the Freeburn’s head and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was not wearing a helmet according to Montana Highway Patrol.

Drugs or alcohol were not suspected in the incident.

Reporter Scott Shindledecker may be reached at 758-4441 or sshindledecker@dailyinterlake.com.