SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING SWIMMER AT DABNEY STATE PARK

 Multnomah Co. Sheriff's Office

On Tuesday afternoon, around 4:30 p.m. Multnomah County dispatch received a report of a missing swimmer. The caller reported that a 21-year-old male, Jose Pascual of Portland, was swimming in the Sandy River at Dabney State Park near Springdale when he went underwater and did not resurface.

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies responded, along with firefighters from Corbett and Gresham Fire Departments. Upon arrival, first responders noted the Sandy River was discolored due to significant glacial runoff from Mount Hood. Rescue swimmers entered the water and began searching for the missing man. However, rescue crews noted zero visibility and exited the water after a brief search for safety reasons. Searchers shifted their efforts and launched a raft and USCG helicopter.

After hours of looking on Tuesday night, Pascual was not found. River conditions on Wednesday prevented MCSO’s dive team from entering the Sandy River to further the search in the water.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone recreating on or near the water this summer to have a life jacket. With significant glacial runoff from Mount Hood, the depths and currents in the Sandy River make conditions dangerous.