A tragic incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a 67-year-old Eugene man drowned in the Willamette River near Springfield. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies and Eugene Springfield Fire crews were dispatched around 2 p.m. to Clearwater Landing after receiving a call about a man who had fallen off an innertube and failed to resurface.
Upon arrival, rescue crews located the man underwater and quickly brought him to the surface. Despite their best efforts to administer life-saving measures, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that he had been wearing a lifejacket, but it became entangled in submerged branches, preventing him from resurfacing.
The victim was identified as Luke John Poulin, 67, of Eugene. The tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers present in local rivers, especially during the holiday weekend when waterways are often crowded with recreational users.
In light of this incident, officials are urging the public to exercise caution while enjoying rivers, particularly in areas where strong currents or underwater hazards may exist. Even experienced swimmers can be at risk in such environments, underscoring the importance of staying vigilant and aware of the conditions in which they are swimming or boating.
This tragedy highlights the need for safety precautions, including proper equipment, awareness of local river conditions, and always exercising caution in unfamiliar or potentially dangerous water environments.
