Body of Teen Who Fell into the Kaweah River Recovered

Caution Urged on Waterways

[14 June, 2024]

Around 2 p.m. Friday, the body of a Tulare teen who fell into the Kaweah River and has been missing since Wednesday was recovered. The 17-year-old’s body was found about 1 1/2 miles from the area where she first went into the water.

Sheriff Boudreaux asks that you keep the victim’s family and friends in your prayers during this tragic time.

Ashley Ritchie Schwarm, Media Supervisor, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office

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[Previously, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office issued the following message.]

The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public of the dangers of fast moving rivers and white water. The Sheriff’s message is simple: Stay away from the river’s edge and don’t enter the water, especially if you do not know how to swim or have been consuming alcohol. When hiking or enjoying the outdoors, be alert and do not let alcohol or any other substance cloud your judgment.

As air temperatures warm, it will be tempting to enter the rivers but don’t be fooled. The water is very cold and fast throughout the spring and early summer. Never leave your children unattended near any body of water. Even if you are an experienced swimmer you should stay out of the water.

Please do not enter white water under any circumstances.  The current conditions in many of our waterways are not survivable despite safety equipment, training or experience in white water.  Inner tubes or other small flotation devices are inadequate and extremely dangerous as they are easily overturned in the swift currents and can be deflated by impacts with rocks and branches.

[SOURCE: Tulare County Sheriff’s Office]