MATTAWA, Wash. (29JULY2015) – A search resumes today for a Yakima man missing after diving into the waters near Vernita Bridge (Mattawa) yesterday afternoon, and now presumed drowned.
The man has been identified as Luis Alfredo Garcia Munoz, age 22, of Yakima. He reportedly dove into the water from shore in efforts to help 3 young swimmers caught in the current. After getting the first two swimmers back to shore, he then too became caught in the current. The third swimmer was able to return to shore safely.
Grant County Search and Rescue, Grant County PUD, MedStar, as well as Columbia Basin Dive Rescue from Tri Cities responded and aided in the search yesterday, and today recovery efforts continue with Benton County, Grant County, and Tri Cities Search and Rescue teams.
Sheriff Tom Jones said, “After his selfless act of courage to help the young swimmers, this is a tragic outcome that is heartbreaking to his family as well as first responders. We will pray for this young man and his family during this very difficult time and hope that the community does the same.”
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CR#15GS08865
PR76/AGT4
Sharon Palmerton
Public Information Officer
[email protected]
509-760-6314
Address/Location
Grant County Sheriff's Office
35 C St NW
Ephrata, WA 98823
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 509-754-2011
