A 51-year-old Albany man has died following a drowning incident Sunday in the Willamette River near Crystal Lake in Corvallis, Oregon.
According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, the victim was identified as Romail Dontail Allen, 51, of Albany.
Authorities said emergency responders received a report around 11:50 a.m. on July 19 about a person in the water near river mile 133. A witness attempted to rescue Allen and later reported that he appeared to be deceased. Another witness told officials that Allen was not wearing a life jacket.
Benton County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol deputies were operating downriver near the Polk County line when the call came in. Corvallis Fire Department personnel arrived first and reached the area by raft.
Officials said Corvallis Fire personnel recovered Allen from the river around 12:22 p.m. upriver from Michael’s Landing. Firefighters immediately began resuscitation efforts and continued lifesaving measures while transporting him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public about the importance of water safety, encouraging everyone to wear a properly fitted life jacket when recreating in or near the water. Officials warned that conditions can change quickly and that even experienced swimmers can become overwhelmed.
Life jackets are available for free public use at stations located in Benton County parks near the Willamette River.
The drowning remains under investigation. Authorities thanked the Corvallis Fire Department, Corvallis Regional Communications Center, and the witness who attempted to rescue Allen for their response and efforts.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is asked to contact Deputy Brigg Savage at BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov.
