WEST SACRAMENTO — A somber end to a search effort Monday afternoon, as crews recovered the body of a fisherman who went missing in the Sacramento River, officials confirmed Tuesday.
Fisherman Went Under While Fishing with Friends
According to the Sacramento Fire Department, the incident occurred near Old River Road by the Sacramento Weir, around 3:30 p.m. Monday. The fisherman was out enjoying time on the river with friends when he unexpectedly entered the water, struggled to stay afloat, and tragically disappeared beneath the surface.
Fire department officials said he “went into the water, struggled to swim and then went under the surface and never came back up.”
Collaborative Effort in Recovery
The recovery operation involved multiple agencies. The Yolo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a dive team from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the search and recovery, working alongside the Sacramento Fire Department.
Their combined efforts led to the successful retrieval of the fisherman’s body from the river.
Identity and Next Steps
Authorities have not yet released the name of the deceased fisherman as they notify family members and complete formal procedures.
No further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident have been released at this time. Investigators continue to review the case to better understand what happened.
Community Reacts with Sympathy
The news of the fisherman’s death has touched many in the community. Fishing is a cherished pastime in the Sacramento area, and the incident is a stark reminder of the river’s power and the risks it can pose even to experienced individuals.
Local resident and fellow angler Mark Harris shared, “It’s heartbreaking. We all respect the river, but accidents like this remind us to stay vigilant.”
Safety Reminders for River Visitors
Officials urge anyone visiting rivers or engaging in water activities to take extra precautions, wear life jackets, and never fish alone. Conditions on rivers can change rapidly, and safety should always be the top priority.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety and the courage of first responders who worked tirelessly during the recovery.
If you have any information related to the incident or want to share condolences, please contact the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office.
“This article was written by Mathew Owen. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”