Full Notification

Today (3/22) at 8:00 am, members of the Simi Valley Police Department responded to the 5000 block of Arroyo Lane, regarding a man requesting help. Upon arrival officers made contact with a local man who had been camping near the drainage wash, just west of Yosemite Avenue. When the rain increased the man and his camp were washed away into the drainage canal. He was swept down the wash where he was battered by cold rushing water and debris. Fortunately he was able to pull himself to safety near Stearns Street. He then made his way to a nearby apartment complex where he requested help. He was subsequently transported to the Simi Valley Hospital, where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries received while in the water.
The public should take this as reminder to stay away from storm drains and washes. During rain storms these areas can quickly fill with water. A few inches of water in the wash can sweep a person off their feet and put them in danger of serious injury or even death. Please be sure to stay away from the wash and remind others, especially children, to do the same for their safety and the safety of others.