On Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010 at 11 a.m., members of the Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium responded to a reported fisherman in danger of drowning in the Sandy River near 11021 SE Lusted Rd. in Sandy. Water-rescue personnel learned the male subject had been fishing with his son along the Sandy River, and while attempting to traverse a dangerous section of river embankment, the father became wedged inside an innertube -- with only his head protruding above the waters of the powerful Sandy River current.
Rescue personnel were relieved to learn the fisherman father was wearing a personal floatation device while in the river -- which most likely contributed to his safety.
The rescue was conducted an estimated 300 yards above what is commonly referred to as the "pipeline" portion of the Sandy River, situated a short distance downstream from Dodge Park. The fisherman was rescued without injury.
The rescued fisherman is identified as David A. Imholt, 58, of Oregon City. Imholt was fishing with his son, Trask Imholt, 30, also of Oregon City, at the time of the mishap. Recognizing his father was having difficulty, Trask Imholt immediately called 911 -- allowing a quick response by the Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium.
Members of the Sandy Fire Department were first on the scene, and located David Imholt on the opposite side of the Sandy River. The above-linked photographs captured the rescue activity as members of the Sandy Fire Department, Clackamas Fire District #1 and Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit deputies assisted Imholt to safety from the 43-degree water of the Sandy River.
American Medical Response personnel treated Imholt with heat packs at the scene, and he was reportedly in good condition.
All photographs courtesy the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.
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Jim Strovink, Detective
Public Information Officer
Clackamas County Sheriff's Office