Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:>

On August 19, 2026, at approximately 10:14 a.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Tagmeyer Beach in Willow Creek to search for an individual who had been observed struggling to swim in the Trinity River the previous day. The individual’s vehicle remained parked at the location, prompting concern for their welfare.

Deputies responded to the area and began searching for the individual. With assistance from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Division, deputies conducted an extensive search of the river and surrounding river bar.

During the search, deputies located two deceased individuals in the water. The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation and appear consistent with drowning.

The deceased have been identified as 45-year-old Arcata resident Lex Rincon and 18-year-old New York resident Krishna Rincon. Their next of kin have been notified.

The cause and manner of death remain pending. Autopsies are scheduled for early next week.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its heartfelt condolences to the Rincon family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.