On June 20, a mid-day jump in the river proved fatal.
The victim, Thomas Blazack, and three friends went to Salmon Falls County Park in Lyons.
They decided to jump into the river from the rock ledge above. The water temperature was in the 40s. There was a high flow of water due to the weather over the past few weeks making for dangerous river conditions.
Blazack experienced difficulty making it back to shore. He was pulled under the water and did not resurface.
A 911 call came in from the emergency phone at the park and Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded immediately.
Numerous swift water teams from neighboring agencies were called to the scene. Ultimately the rescue operation switched to a recovery operation.
The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team was able to recover the body, found in approximately 18 feet of water directly below the falls.
Marion County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team, Marion County Search and Rescue Team, Stayton Fire, Lyons Ambulance, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Fire, Scio Fire and Albany Fire.
Officials said the tragic event is a strong reminder that with the weather heating up, the heavy flow of the water and the waters being very cold, this is a very dangerous time. Those choosing outdoor recreation are urged to be mindful and use extreme caution when swimming.
The Oregon State Marine Board advises the North Santiam River is running with swift current and has areas of large woody debris.
It is not recommended for floaters in inner tubes or pool toys, beginner to intermediate paddlers, or others not experienced in avoiding obstacles.
Scouting ahead and keeping a sharp lookout is paramount to keeping safe, officials said. They advised that for the last quarter mile of the North Santiam before it converges with the South Santiam, paddlers should portage river right on the gravel bar to navigate logs. They said the obstructions cannot be safely mitigated.
Information on obstructions and the recommendations for safe passage can be found at www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/Reported-Obstructions-Alerts.aspx.
