Two of Three Boat Occupants Rescued Near Elk Island in Roseburg, After Accident on River
6:23 PM · Jan 24, 2024Here is the report of the incident from Douglas Co. Fire Dist. No.2: "At 2:41 p.m. Monday, Roseburg Fire Department (RFD) was dispatched to a water rescue in the area of Elk Island and requested the Technical Rescue Team from Douglas County Fire District No. 2 (DCFD2). Initial reports stated that a boat flipped over, and three people were in the water. Shortly after the initial report, an update was given to responders that two subjects were seen holding on to brush next to Elk Island, and one continued downriver. Roseburg Fire arrived at the scene, locating the two subjects holding onto the brush. Roseburg Fire established command, placed crews downriver for safety, and began coordinating with Douglas County Fire District No. 2 technical rescue team. The Technical Rescue Team from DCFD2 launched their paddle raft under the Oak/Washington Street bridge to gain access to the two subjects near Elk Island. They also deployed their Power Boat at Templin Beach Park to assist with the rescue efforts of the 3rd subject, who was reported floating down the river. The team successfully rescued the two subjects near Elk Island and was evaluated by Umpqua Valley Ambulance. Oregon State Police, Douglas County Sheriff's Office (DCSO), and DCFD2 continued rescue efforts with boats from Elk Island to Old Melrose/W. Goedeck Ave for the 3rd subject. The scene was turned over to DCSO. Roseburg Fire, DCFD2, and Oregon State Police responded to this incident with 3 engines, 3 rescue boats, 4 command vehicles, and 1 ambulance, totaling 26 personnel. Roseburg Police, DCSO, Oregon State Police, and Umpqua Valley Ambulance assisted fire crews." This post will be updated as more information becomes available. Photo courtesy of Nick Wecks of DCFD2