Portland Fire & Rescue Responds to Two Drownings at Kelley Point Park
Posted @ 7:45 pm
At 5:30 pm, Portland Fire & Rescue firefighters and divers responded to Kelley Point Park where it was reported that a 25-year-old male had been swimming in the river when he began to struggle. Witnesses report that a 20-year-old male went into the water to help the other swimmer when he also went under.
At approximately 6:55 pm, Portland Fire divers pulled the 20-year-old male from the water and began to perform CPR. Their efforts to revive him were unsuccessful due to the length of time he had been underwater and he was pronounced dead. Then, at around 7:00 pm, divers located and pulled the second individual from the water and performed CPR, which was unsuccessful. Due to a language barrier, it is unclear at this time exactly why both individuals disappeared underwater or if they are related.
"Portland Fire & Rescue reminds everyone to take precautions when swimming and know your limitations," said Public Information Officer Paul Corah. "With warm summer temperatures continuing, people are flocking to Portland's waterways to cool off. Tonight's tragedy is a reminder to be especially vigilant in and around the water."