Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is releasing information regarding two separate drowning incidents that occurred in the Trinity River within a couple of days of each other and is reminding residents and visitors to use caution while recreating in and around local waterways.

Trinity River Drowning – Hoopa

On July 16, 2026, at approximately 11:43 a.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the Campbell Creek area of the Trinity River in Hoopa following a report of a drowning.

Due to the responding deputies’ geographic location at the time of the call and the potential for a delayed response, deputies requested assistance from the Hoopa Tribal Police Department, whose personnel were located closer to the incident.

Upon arrival, Hoopa Tribal Police officers located and recovered the victim from the river using their patrol boat, with assistance from Hoopa Ambulance personnel and Hoopa Volunteer Fire Department paramedics. Rescue personnel immediately initiated lifesaving efforts, including CPR; however, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

According to witnesses, the victim entered the river and walked into chest-deep water before being overcome by the current and swept underwater.

Trinity River Drowning – Willow Creek

On July 18, 2026, at approximately 1:32 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the Trinity River just north of Burwood Lane in Willow Creek following reports that a female tubing on the river had gone underwater after her tube overturned in a strong current.

The female was wearing a life vest; however, the vest became entangled on a tree branch, trapping her underwater and preventing her from resurfacing. Nearby friends were eventually able to free her from the branch.

The female was located unconscious, and bystanders immediately began performing CPR until deputies arrived and assumed lifesaving efforts. Medical personnel responded and continued extensive lifesaving measures, including CPR and advanced medical treatment. Despite these efforts, the female was pronounced deceased.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Hoopa Tribal Police Department, Hoopa Ambulance Services personnel, Hoopa Volunteer Fire Department, Salyer Volunteer Fire Department, and the United States Coast Guard for their assistance during these two tragic incidents.

Autopsies have been scheduled for this week, and toxicology results are pending. The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending the completion of next-of-kin notifications.

These investigations are still ongoing. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. 

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the families and loved ones impacted by these tragic losses.

Water Safety Reminder

The Trinity River is a beautiful and popular recreation area; however, it can also present serious and unpredictable hazards, including strong currents, cold water temperatures, submerged obstacles, and rapidly changing conditions.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office urges everyone recreating on or near the river to take the following precautions:

• Wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD), especially while swimming, boating, or tubing.

• Never underestimate the power of moving water, even in areas that appear calm or shallow.

• Avoid entering the river alone and always inform someone of your plans.

• Closely supervise children around all bodies of water.

• Avoid alcohol or impairing substances while participating in water activities.

• Know your limits and exit the water if conditions become unsafe.

A moment of preparation can help prevent a tragedy. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to enjoy the river responsibly and prioritize safety while recreating outdoors.

Anyone with information about these cases is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251.