Albany, OR – August 2, 2025 – At approximately 1:54 PM and again at 4:26 PM, the Albany Fire Department and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol responded to two separate reports of individuals stranded in a fast-moving section of the Willamette River near Monteith Park.
In both incidents, rescuers located individuals clinging to dense brush along the riverbank, unable to return to shore safely due to strong currents and overgrown vegetation. Crews navigated swift, debris-filled water to reach the individuals and successfully brought them to safety using rescue boats.
Paramedics assessed the rescued individuals on scene. No serious injuries were reported, and all parties were released after evaluation. To protect their privacy, their names are not being released.
These incidents highlight the ongoing risks associated with recreating in the Willamette River during late summer, when water levels drop and hidden hazards become more pronounced. The Willamette’s current remains strong, and conditions can change swiftly. Additionally, thick brush along the river’s right bank can easily entrap or injure those recreating in the water.
The Albany Fire Department and Benton County Sheriff’s Office strongly urge all community members and visitors to observe the following safety precautions:
- Always wear a life jacket when in or near the river—even if you’re a strong swimmer.
- Avoid areas with swift currents, submerged obstacles, or thick vegetation that can entangle limbs and equipment.
- Scout your route in advance. Conditions change rapidly, especially as water levels fall later in the season.
- Never recreate alone on the river. Use the buddy system and inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
- Stay sober while in or around water. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and response time.
- Use designated river access points and avoid unauthorized or overgrown trails to the water’s edge.
- Avoid using inflatable tubes to float rivers meant for pools.
“Rivers can be unpredictable, even for experienced swimmers,” said Battalion Chief Mark Bernt. “What may appear calm on the surface can hide strong currents or entrapment hazards beneath.”
Both agencies commend the swift coordination of today’s rescue efforts and thank the community for remaining alert and using the free life vests available at all Albany Fire Stations, Bryant and Bowman Parks.
