Portland Man Drowns in Spite of Rescue Effort

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office wants to remind the public that this time of the year, the waters in the rivers are cold, high and fast moving.

Salem-News.com

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Investigators say a 21-year old Portland man drowned Sunday night after being swept away by fast moving currents, while swimming in the Sandy River.

Lt. Mary Lindstrand with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, says Kirk Alexander Dunn was swimming with friends at the Sandy River near the Troutdale Bridge when he was caught by in swift current.

"He was taken down river by the fast moving current. Calls for help went out at 6:12 p.m." Linstrand said.

"Mr. Dunn was rescued/pulled from the water south of the Lewis and Clark boat ramp by Gresham Fire AT 6:42 p.m. Mr. Dunn was transported to Legacy Mount Hood Hospital. Mr. Dunn was pronounced deceased at 7:14 p.m. Family notification has been made."

Lindstrand says MCSO would like to remind the public that this time of the year, the waters in the rivers are cold, high and fast moving.

"The Sandy River is only 40 degree, the Columbia River is approximately 50 degrees. Use caution when entering or swimming."