A recovery operation is in progress at Lava Island Falls along the Deschutes River southwest of Bend, Oregon, after kayakers discovered a body on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities say the terrain surrounding the falls is steep, rocky, and difficult to access, making the effort both complex and time-consuming.
The operation is being led by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team in coordination with Bend Fire & Rescue. Officials have not yet released the identity of the deceased or confirmed how long the body may have been in the water.
what happened
According to authorities, a group of kayakers had paddled toward the island near Lava Island Falls to take photographs when they came across the body. They immediately alerted emergency services, prompting a coordinated response.
The discovery comes roughly six weeks after a deadly incident upstream at Dillon Falls, another dangerous stretch of the Deschutes River. On July 12, six people floating on inner tubes were swept over Dillon Falls after missing the final takeout point. Three survived, but two individuals were later found deceased. A third man has remained missing since the incident and is presumed dead.
Law enforcement has not confirmed whether the body found at Lava Island Falls is connected to the earlier Dillon Falls tragedy. Identification efforts are ongoing.
why the area is dangerous
Lava Island Falls is classified as a Class 5 rapid — a rating reserved for extremely challenging and hazardous whitewater conditions. The falls form part of a segmented waterfall system shaped by ancient lava flows from Lava Butte, which created sharp drops, powerful hydraulics, and unpredictable currents along this section of the river.
Water levels, submerged rock formations, and swift currents make the area especially dangerous for swimmers, tubers, and inexperienced boaters. Even experienced paddlers approach the stretch with caution.
The Deschutes River corridor remains one of Oregon’s most popular recreation areas, particularly during summer months, but officials regularly remind visitors to scout rapids carefully and exit at designated takeout points.
public advisory and ongoing investigation
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has urged the public to avoid Lava Island Falls while recovery efforts continue. Officials say additional updates will be provided once identification is complete and next of kin have been notified.
Incidents like this highlight the inherent risks present in powerful river systems, particularly during peak recreation season. As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on both recovery operations and determining whether the case is linked to the earlier Dillon Falls tragedy.
