Tragic Drowning at Oregon’s Tamolitch Falls

A tragic incident occurred when Kenny Truong, a 21-year-old student from Wichita State University, drowned after jumping into a well-known swimming spot in Oregon. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office reported that the water at the location, known as Tamolitch Falls or Blue Pool, is extremely cold, averaging 37 degrees, which can cause immediate physical shock.

On the evening of June 26, Truong was at Tamolitch Falls with friends when he jumped into the water and struggled to swim to shore before submerging. Despite the efforts of bystanders and first responders, Truong did not survive. Dispatchers received an emergency call at 8:47 p.m. about a man in distress at the pool, which is situated off Highway 126.

Undersheriff Micah Smith expressed condolences, saying, “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Kenny Truong during this unimaginable time.” Authorities including the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, and Upper McKenzie Rural Fire responded but faced challenges due to the remote location and minimal cellphone service.

Kenny Truong was a finance major at the W. Frank Barton School of Business and a member-at-large of the Cummings Student Managed Investment Fund, confirmed Wichita State University. The area is popular for its stunning turquoise water and cliffside views, attracting visitors from across the Pacific Northwest, but it poses significant risks.

The cliffs around Blue Pool rise between 10 and 60 feet. Access is difficult, and rescue operations can be hampered, taking several hours to reach a hospital in case of an emergency. Sheriff Smith cautioned that the pool has taken lives before and warned visitors to understand the dangers.

A friend of Truong, Carter Nguyen, organized a GoFundMe and remembered Truong as a cherished friend who inspired others. Nguyen described Truong as someone who made others feel loved and capable. “Kenny wasn’t just my best friend; he was my brother,” Nguyen wrote. He mentioned Truong’s impact on those around him, simply by his presence.

The sheriff’s office advised visitors to comprehend the risks at Tamolitch Falls, remain vigilant, and call for help if someone is in distress. They also recommended contacting the McKenzie River Ranger Station for current conditions and advised caution.