Name released of missing kayaker who went over Willamette falls
Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez
CLACKAMAS COUNTY Ore. (KPTV) - On Thursday, authorities released the name of a kayaker who went missing on the Willamette River almost a week ago.
According to the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, the 20-year-old California man who disappeared over the falls on April 12 was Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez.
Over the week, deputies said they’ve expanded their search to span an 11-mile stretch of the Willamette River, up to the Sellwood Bridge.
Rodriguez had been vacationing with his family in a floating home community less than a mile upstream from the falls in the Canemah community, according to deputies.
He had contacted a family member shortly after getting into the river at around 10 p.m. that night.
A homeless community member called 911 when they saw Rodriguez struggling. He then jumped out of the kayak and tried to swim away from the falls, deputies said.
Rodriguez disappeared seconds later.
According to CCSO, authorities are continuing to search the river to bring closure to his family.
On Thursday, the family released the following statement via CCSO:
“We, the family of Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez, are truly devastated by the tragic event that unfolded this past Saturday in the Willamette Falls area, and we would not wish this experience on anyone. Our family is making every effort to heal and come to terms with our loss.
“We would like to first warn others to always be aware of their surroundings and to NEVER enter this river without wearing a life jacket or, at the very least, exercising extreme caution, as the forces of nature can quickly become overwhelming and deadly.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the teams of first responders who rushed to our aid and continue to search for our boy. We also thank the locals and fishermen out on the water who have been watchful and helpful during this difficult time. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office has treated us with care and compassion, and we are forever grateful for their efforts.
“Marcelus loved God, his family, and nature. We hope that this tragic accident can be avoided in the future for other families. May God keep watch over Marcelus and bless him always.”
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