Victims In Russian River Drownings Were Not Wearing Lifejackets: Sheriff's Office

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office released more information about the two separate fatal drownings in the county on Sunday.

Just before 3 p.m., first responders arrived at Monte Rio Beach at 20400 Bohemian Highway on the lower Russian River on a report of two juveniles struggling in the water.

According the Sheriff's Office, the two teens were on a raft when it tipped over. Neither were wearing a lifejacket.

One juvenile was rescued by a bystander, but the second one could not immediately be located, the Sheriff's Office said. In about 20 minutes, the second juvenile was located and emergency measures were taken such as CPR, but the juvenile was pronounced dead.

Then at 3:49 p.m., a man was found unresponsive in the waters of Martinelli Beach north of Jenner.

According to the Sheriff's Office, the man, who wasn't wearing a lifejacket, was on a paddleboard with another person when he stood up and lost his balance. He fell into the water and struggled to swim. The woman who had been on the paddleboard attempted to rescue him but was unable to reach him. She swam to the shore and called 911.

The Sheriff's Office helicopter retrieved the man and CPR was attempted by the Forestville Fire District but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the deceased," said the office on social media. "Investigations are ongoing, and further details will be released once they become available."

By Katy St. Clair

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