A weekend outing turned tragic on Saturday afternoon after a group of six people were swept over Dillon Falls on Oregon’s Deschutes River, resulting in one confirmed death and two individuals still missing.
According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. PDT (21:00 BST) near the popular waterfall, which features a dramatic 15-foot (4.5-meter) drop leading into powerful, churning rapids. The falls are located just outside the city of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, a well-frequented destination for river enthusiasts, including kayakers, boaters, and anglers.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene following multiple 911 calls and were able to rescue three individuals from the river. Those survivors were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, one person was declared dead at the scene, and the search continues for the remaining two individuals who are unaccounted for.
Search efforts were suspended overnight but are scheduled to resume Sunday morning. Authorities are using drones and specialized river search teams to navigate the challenging terrain and turbulent waters around Dillon Falls. The identities of those involved have not yet been released, pending family notifications.
Visit Central Oregon describes Dillon Falls as a “step ladder-like pattern” of cascading rapids that follow the initial drop, making the area both visually stunning and potentially dangerous. Though the falls are a highlight of the Deschutes River experience, officials warn that the current and the complex structure of the rapids can quickly become hazardous, particularly for those unfamiliar with the river’s dynamics.
Each summer, thousands of tourists flock to the Deschutes River for recreational activities such as tubing, kayaking, and fishing. Saturday’s tragic incident underscores the importance of safety precautions, especially when navigating areas with strong currents and waterfalls.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and respect river safety guidelines. More information will be provided once the ongoing search concludes and families have been notified. The community around Bend is now grappling with the somber reminder of the river’s unpredictable power.
