Benton County Sheriff’s Office Continues Search for Drowning Victim
Benton County Sheriff’s Office Continues Search for Drowning Victim
CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) continues search efforts for their first drowning victim of the year, 49-year-old Naomi Pomeroy, of Portland.
On Saturday, July 13, 2024, at approximately 8:25 pm, Naomi drowned in the Willamette River near river mile 132 in Corvallis, about 100 yards upstream from the Mary’s River.
An investigation by BCSO determined three adults recreating on tubes and a paddle board (two tubes were secured together and the paddle board was attached to Naomi), became entangled on an exposed snag in the water. One of the adults, Naomi, was pulled under the water and unable to free herself due to the paddleboard leash.
Corvallis Fire Department was first on scene with a boat and was unable to recover Naomi. BCSO responded shortly after and quickly began searching downriver from the incident site, both by land and water.
Corvallis Fire Department personnel recovered the two other adults on the shore and safely transported them to a boat launch.
BCSO deputies searched the area using all available tools, including sonar, underwater cameras, and drones, but were unable to locate any signs of Naomi in the area due to heavy debris in the water.
After all usable daylight diminished, search efforts were suspended due to boater safety and dive teams not being able to respond or deploy due to conditions.
BCSO personnel have been on the water every day since Saturday searching for Naomi and will continue to deploy resources until her recovery.
The public can assist by keeping an eye out for Naomi and are encouraged to wear a life jacket and follow other boating laws and safety precautions. If located, immediately call 9-1-1 dispatch; do not attempt recovery efforts.
“This Office is dedicated to locating Naomi and bringing her home to her family and loved ones”, said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “I want to thank all involved in the search and recovery mission during this difficult time.”
Rivers are inherently dangerous with current and hazards. Know and or scout rivers before you go at https://willamettewatertrail.org/plan-your-trip/.
If you float rivers, do not tie yourself to a paddle board unless you have a quick release leash. Also, do not tie two or more inner tubes together; this requires you to have a life jacket for each person. Kids 12 and younger must wear life jacket. BCSO continues to remind paddlers of all laws at https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/propulsion-landing-pages/go-paddling.aspx.
BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Fire Department, Corvallis Police Department, Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team and Albany Fire Department for their assistance.