We have received questions about the number of bodies recovered in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, in Multnomah County, this spring. 

Since April 1, 2025, eight bodies have been recovered. Compared to April and May 2024, six bodies were recovered. The number is not unusual, though it is tragic.

The Medical Examiner continues to investigate and finalize the cause and manner of death. However, the majority of the eight bodies recovered this April and May are the result of drowning caused by suicide.

Additionally, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office has no reason to believe there is any suspicious activity nor do we believe there is any connection between the bodies.

Several main factors contribute to these discoveries this time of year.

• Biology and increasing water temperatures: Initially, a body will sink due to its density. As decomposition progresses and gas is produced, the body becomes less dense and floats to the surface. Warmer water accelerates the natural decomposition process, which can cause bodies to rise to the surface more quickly. 

• Water currents: The speed, flow, path and underwater obstructions (logs, rocks and sediment) of the river can influence decomposition rates and locations where bodies are found.

• Increased water activity: As the weather improves, more people spend time on the rivers in boats or at the rivers’ banks, such as to fish, paddle or boat. The increased presence of people leads to a higher likelihood of previously undiscovered remains being seen and reported.

When a body is recovered in the river, the Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit transfers the body to the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Medical Examiner verifies the body’s identity and determines how the person died.

Mental health and suicide impact many people in our community every day.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you’re not alone. Help is available by calling our texting 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline.