Third day of recovery efforts underway for two people missing since a fatal Dillon Falls tubing accident
Claire Elmer
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A summer float on the Deschutes River ended in tragedy near Dillon Falls this weekend.
Officials responded to a report just before 3 p.m. on Saturday that six people in inner tubes had gone over the falls.
Three people were rescued, one was found deceased and as of Monday morning, two people remain missing.
A multi-agency recovery operation has been underway since the initial call, with drones, K9s and search boats working along both the water and the banks.
Claire Elmer returned Monday to the area where dive teams are conducting recovery operations. She’ll have a report on KTVZ News at 5:00 p.m.
People recreating in the area took notice of the efforts. Liz Keyser and Mike Sanchez were cycling in the area on Sunday.
“We saw a lot of resources. Search and rescue at Benham Falls…and then sheriff’s along the trail above the river,” said Keyser. “And a guy with a remote drone that was probably searching,” Sanchez added.
Signage does exist to warn floaters about the last takeout point before the dangerous drop. But, if you’re not paying attention or are unfamiliar with the area, the risk can be high.
Jason Carr, public information officer for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), pointed out the additional concerns with the specific location.
“The issue with that spot is just right around the bend from the day use area is where the rapids begin, and if people get caught there, it’s almost impossible for them to be able to get out,” stressed Carr.
As recovery efforts continue, the officials urge the public to stay away from the area as much as possible so teams can work without disruption.
“If you see a lot of crews there, it’s best to just remain out of the area so they can do their job,” said Carr.
This tragedy serves as a grim reminder to always be extremely cautious when recreating in Central Oregon. The goal of the ongoing recovery efforts weighed heavily on those witnessing them.
“It’s pretty solemn riding out here today…we are just praying for the families and the three survivors in this accident. It’s just really sad. Know where you’re floating. Know the rapids and the falls in this river,” said Keyser.
Sanchez reminded the public, “wear your PFD (personal floatation device). Always wear your PFD.”
DCSO says they’re prepared to continue recovery operations as long as it takes, using every available resource. They remain confident they will be able to find the missing victims.
“We have a lot of resources at our disposal. As the recovery efforts continue, there’s additional resources that can be deployed,” said Carr.
KTVZ News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they are received.
The original release from DCSO is below:
Deschutes County, Ore. – A multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway after a group of six individuals went over Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River west of Bend Saturday afternoon.
At approximately 2:57 p.m., Deschutes County 9-1-1 received a report of the incident, prompting an immediate response from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Fire & Rescue, and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR). The Bend Police Department provided drone support, and AirLink assisted with the aerial search.
Three individuals were rescued from the river and transported to St. Charles-Bend by ambulance. One person was confirmed deceased at the scene. Two others remain missing.
DCSO Search & Rescue and Bend Fire & Rescue crews continued recovery efforts into the evening and will work until sunset. If unsuccessful, operations will pause overnight and resume in the morning.
The names of the victims and survivors are not being released at this time to allow for proper family notification.
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office thanks all partner agencies for their swift and coordinated response. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
