Deputies Recover Capsized Boat After Columbia River Rescue Near Arlington

May 21

Written By Columbia Community Connection

From Gilliam County Sheriff's Office:

The Dalles, Ore., May 21, 2026 — On May 20th, 2026, at approximately 8:36 a.m., Frontier Regional 911 received a report of a capsized flat-bottom boat near river marker 252 on the Columbia River near Arlington, Oregon. A caller also reported several items floating in the water, including a backpack and a cooler.

Multiple deputies responded to the area and coordinated with the Sherman County Sheriff's Office who responded with boat to assist in the recovery efforts. A Gilliam County deputy also deployed a drone to search the surrounding area for any additional persons or property in the water.

During the investigation, it was determined the boat had capsized up river the previous evening during an incident on May 19th, 2026 near the Patterson Boat launch. Fortunately, the occupants of the vessel had already been safely rescued by a passing barge and were assisted back to shore. No injuries were reported.

The capsized boat was recovered and towed to the Willow Creek Boat Launch. Deputies were able to contact the boat owner, who later responded to retrieve the vessel and recovered property.

The Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the reporting party, Sheriff Burgett and Deputy Long of the Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, and all assisting agencies for their cooperation and assistance during this incident. We also remind everyone recreating on the Columbia River to wear life jackets and ensure vessels are equipped with proper safety equipment before heading onto the water.