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Monday 23/02/2026

Tragedy Strikes at Dillon Falls: One Dead, Two Missing in Oregon Waterfall Incident

Rescue teams search at Dillon Falls in Oregon
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • One person died and two remain missing after six individuals were swept over Dillon Falls in Oregon on Saturday.
  • The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office coordinated a multi-agency search and rescue operation, utilizing drones and aerial support.
  • Three survivors were rescued and hospitalized, while search efforts for the missing will resume after pausing overnight.
  • The victims' identities have not been released pending family notification.
  • Dillon Falls, a popular recreational site near Bend, Oregon, is known for its challenging rapids and scenic trails.

A tragic accident unfolded at Dillon Falls in Oregon on Saturday, resulting in the death of one individual and leaving two others missing. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office reported that a group of six people was swept over the waterfall, prompting an immediate and extensive search and rescue operation.

Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts

The incident was reported around 2:57 PM, leading to a swift response from multiple agencies, including the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and Bend Fire and Rescue. Utilizing drones and aerial support from Airlink, authorities managed to locate and rescue three individuals from the Deschutes River. These survivors were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, one person was pronounced dead at the scene, while the search for the remaining two continues.

Dillon Falls: A Popular Yet Perilous Destination

Dillon Falls, located near Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, is a favored spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its 15-foot drop and challenging rapids, the area attracts thousands of visitors each summer for activities such as boating, kayaking, and tubing. The US Forest Service highlights the site’s accessibility, with a trail offering scenic views of the falls and the surrounding river.

Ongoing Search and Family Notifications

Search and rescue teams worked diligently into the evening, with plans to resume efforts the following morning if necessary. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims to allow for proper family notification, respecting the privacy and emotional needs of those affected.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the search for the missing individuals continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of both rescue teams and visitors to the area. This incident may prompt a review of safety measures and signage at popular recreational sites like Dillon Falls to prevent future tragedies. Experts might advocate for increased public awareness campaigns on the risks associated with natural water features. The outcome of the ongoing search efforts will likely influence local policy discussions on emergency response protocols and resource allocation for search and rescue operations in Oregon.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Deschutes County Sheriff's Office