Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:
On July 22, 2026, at approximately 4:17 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call reporting a possible drowning at Kimtu Beach in Willow Creek.
Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies, along with emergency medical personnel, responded to the scene and contacted the reporting party.
According to the reporting party, a family member had last been seen floating on a flotation device in the Trinity River near Kimtu Beach. A short time later, the flotation device was found overturned in the river, and the individual was no longer visible. Witnesses reported seeing the individual being carried downstream by the river’s current.
The individual was subsequently located and recovered from the water unconscious. Emergency personnel immediately initiated lifesaving measures, including CPR. Despite their efforts, the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene. The decedent was released into the care of the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause and manner of death.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.
This marks the third drowning in the Trinity River within the past week. The Sheriff’s Office urges everyone recreating local rivers to exercise extreme caution. River conditions can change rapidly, and swift currents, cold water temperatures, and hidden hazards can quickly become life-threatening even for experienced swimmers.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents and visitors to make safety their top priority while enjoying the region’s rivers this summer. These waters can be deceptively dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.
Even when it’s hot outside, the river is still very cold. The cold water can cause your muscles to seize up, making it difficult or even impossible to swim. Just a few seconds in cold, fast-moving water can lead to tragedy.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Boating Safety and Swift Water Rescue Team advises the public to take the following precautions when recreating near or on the water:
Always wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or swimming.
Never leave children unattended near rivers or creeks. Always keep a close eye on kids and make sure they are wearing life jackets.
Avoid alcohol and drugs when participating in water activities, as they impair judgment and reaction time.
Do not underestimate the current. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, the power of moving water can knock you off your feet and carry you downstream in seconds.
Stay informed about river conditions and obey all posted warning signs and closures.
Emergency services are often limited in remote river areas, and response times can be delayed. Taking precautions ahead of time can save lives.
We urge everyone to prioritize safety and make smart choices around our waterways.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere appreciation to the Hoopa Tribal Police Department, California Highway Patrol, CAL FIRE, and Hoopa-Willow Creek Ambulance Service for their assistance and coordinated response during this tragic incident.
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