A Sweet Home man died Tuesday afternoon, May 16, in the Calapooia River after falling in while walking his dogs, the Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District reported.
According to SHFAD, rescue personnel responded at 3:22 p.m. after the 58-year-old man, whose name was not immediately available, was reported missing.
His wife reportedly witnessed him falling into the river and float around a bend, SHFAD said.
When the husband’s dog returned without him, the wife drove down the road to get cell service and called 911.
Sweet Home Fire District personnel were able to access the river at the location the male was last seen. Initial responding fire crews were able to walk the river to conduct a search, while the rescue swimmers were preparing to make entry into the water.
The initial crews located the male in the water, face down and unresponsive. Crews quickly extricated him from the water and initiated advanced life support and resuscitative efforts. Those efforts were not successful, and the male was pronounced dead at the scene.
There was no indication that any intoxicants were a factor, SHFAD said.
The Fire District is reminding the public that local waters are still very cold and there is still a large seasonal flow in our rivers and streams. People should use caution around all water ways, lakes, and rivers. Always wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket when recreating in or around water. Life jackets are available at the Sweet Home Fire District’s main station, 1099 Long St., available for loan for use in local waterways.