Missing Athol man found trapped under ATV after three days in ‘good’ condition at hospital

The 66-year-old Athol man who was found trapped under his all-terrain vehicle Sunday after he had been missing for three days was reported to be in “good” condition Monday, according to Kootenai Health.

Kootenai County Sheriff’s Deputies believed Howard Coates had been pinned between a tree and his ATV since going missing Thursday night, according to a news release. A family riding dirt bikes on an unmarked trail off North Pope Road contacted authorities to report the ATV crash just after 5 p.m. Sunday.

Coates and his family issued a written statement and declined further interviews Monday afternoon.

“We would like to thank the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department, search and rescue team, and first responders as well as our family, friends, and neighbors for their help and support. We will be forever grateful for their assistance, organization, and efforts. Thanks all for your thoughts and prayers,” the family wrote.

Authorities, volunteers and air units had been assisting in the search for Coates. He was airlifted to Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene for treatment of his injuries.