As the weather warms up and people flock to Oregon’s rivers for kayaking, rafting, and peaceful walks, a grim reality is emerging beneath the surface.
Local authorities have made a heartbreaking discovery: several bodies have been pulled from the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in recent weeks.
A Surge in River-Related Deaths
Since April 1, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office has recovered eight bodies from these rivers.
While the natural beauty of the region draws countless visitors, officials are reminding the public that these waters can be extremely dangerous.
“The number isn’t unusual for this time of year, but it’s undeniably tragic,” the Sheriff’s Office stated.
Although investigations are still ongoing, early signs point to a mix of suicides and accidental drownings.
Mental Health and River Safety: A Deadly Mix
Authorities believe most of the recent drownings were related to suicide.
This points to a deeper mental health crisis that communities continue to grapple with—especially as nature becomes an escape for those suffering in silence.
Multnomah County, the smallest in Oregon by size, is surrounded by stunning scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities.
But this same natural allure can turn fatal without the proper precautions.
The Case of Marcelus Rodriguez
One of the victims was 20-year-old Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez, who disappeared on April 12 while kayaking on the Willamette River.
Witnesses saw him in distress before he was tragically swept over the falls and didn’t resurface.
Weeks later, his body was found near the shoreline north of Meldrum Bar Park in Gladstone.
The area was difficult to reach, but the Marine Unit managed to recover his remains using boats.
A Family’s Plea for Caution
Rodriguez’s devastated family issued a heartfelt statement urging others to prioritize safety when near or on the water.
“We wouldn’t wish this pain on anyone,” they said.
“Please, never go into the river without a life jacket and always stay alert. Nature’s power can change everything in an instant.”
Another Accidental Drowning
Just this past Saturday, another body was discovered in the Columbia River near Northeast Marine Drive.
Authorities believe the person fell from a dock earlier that day and drowned.
The incident appears to be accidental, and police found no signs of foul play.
Spring Brings More Discoveries
Multnomah County officials noted that finding more bodies in the spring isn’t unusual.
As the water warms up and river activity increases, so does the likelihood of discovering remains.
It’s a sobering reminder that even in the most picturesque places, tragedy can strike—especially when safety precautions are overlooked or mental health challenges go unnoticed.