Public and Private Agencies Save 10 People During Combined Rogue River Rescue

Gold Beach, Oregon- On 05/22/24, a dramatic rescue unfolded along the Rogue River near Huntly Park, in Curry County. A 911 call reported multiple individuals, including juveniles, possibly drowning in the Rogue River. Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies, Gold Beach Police Officers, Gold Beach Fire, medical personnel from Cal-Or ambulance, and Reach medical helicopters converged on the scene.

Upon arrival, officers found seven individuals clinging to rocks or struggling in the water. Deputy Bryce Starbird, Officer Sarah Aryanfard, and Officer Robert Helme courageously swam across the river to assist. Tragically, two individuals, including a sheriff’s deputy and a GBPD officer, were swept downstream by the strong current.

Sergeant Jared Gray and Lieutenant David Denney arrived in a sheriff’s patrol boat, spotting three distressed individuals. Prioritizing the most critical case, they rescued a struggling male, later identified as a GBPD officer, and two females. Meanwhile, a private guided fishing boat operated by Sam Waller joined the rescue effort, retrieving additional individuals from the water and rocks.

All rescued parties were transported to safety at Huntly Park, where medical personnel awaited. Despite the harrowing ordeal, a coordinated effort among various agencies ensured that all 10 individuals involved, including the juveniles, teachers, and officers, are expected to fully recover.

The juveniles and teachers, visiting from Surprise Valley School in California, were unaware of the river’s dangers and were directed to Huntly Park for swimming. The incident underscores the perilous conditions of the Rogue River, with its high flow and cold temperatures ranging from 50 to low 60 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to rapid onset of hypothermia.

Acknowledgment goes to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, GBPD, Cal Or Ambulance, Reach Helicopter, Gold Beach Fire, Port Orford Police, and Sam Waller for their remarkable teamwork and dedication, ensuring a successful outcome amidst the crisis.