River Glow Float on Rogue Ends with Citations Issued After Mishap
An unauthorized event on the Rogue River, advertised as a River Glow Float resulted in dangerous accidents in the river.
Last Saturday, at 12:16 AM, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office along with three other emergency responders were dispatched to the Robertson Bridge Road and Lower River Road area for a report of a possible drowning. Several hundred people were participating in the nighttime event.
During this event, several people between the ages of 5 and 47 years old became trapped on a large log in the river. Some lost their floatation devices, and several did not have their required safety equipment with them. During this incident, numerous people were separated from their groups and reported missing.
The Sheriff’s Office Marine Deputy responded and worked with other responders to safely rescue 5 individuals and assisted 7 others with getting to safety. Several miles of the river were checked and no other individuals in need of assistance were located.
By the time first responders cleared the scene, all subjects previously reported missing were located and accounted for.
As the follow up investigation continues, several citations have been or will be issued as a result of this night float. So far, 13 people have been cited for Unsafe Boating Operation, 2 for Recklessly Endangering, 1 for Disorderly Conduct and 1 for Hosting an Event Without a Permit.
