Tragedy on the Columbia: 20-Year-Old Luis Adrian Oropeza Perez Drowns Near Warehouse Beach in Umatilla

A heartbreaking tragedy struck Umatilla, Oregon on the evening of August 3, 2025, when 20‑year‑old Luis Adrian Oropeza Perez drowned while swimming in the Columbia River at Warehouse Beach, located at 34560 Highway 730 near Umatilla

🏞️ About Warehouse Beach and the Area

Warehouse Beach sits on the shores of Lake Wallula, the reservoir formed by McNary Dam on the Columbia River. This stretch, marked by sandy beaches and private cliffs, is popular for swimming, picnicking, camping, and launching kayaks. The site sits about 15 miles south of the Walla Walla junction and offers stunning views of basalt cliffs and river wildlife. It’s part of the Warehouse Beach Habitat Management Unit, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with group campsites and trails via the Lake Wallula Scenic River Trail

Timeline: What Happened

• At approximately 7:46 p.m., Perez was seen swimming from the riverbank cliffs toward a nearby island near Warehouse Beach.

• Midway across, he began to struggle. Onlookers attempted rescue but were unable to assist effectively.

• Local emergency agencies—including Umatilla Rural Fire, Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, the Army Corps of Engineers, and later the Columbia Basin Dive Rescue—responded swiftly and began search efforts but had to pause at nightfall after a possible sonar signal

• The next morning at 8 a.m., search operations resumed with assistance from Oregon State Police, Benton County (WA) Sheriff’s Office, Hermiston PD, and Irrigon Fire Department.

• By 3:45 p.m., divers reached another sonar point and recovered Perez’s body from the river

Community Response and Safety Considerations

The tragic loss of Luis Adrian Oropeza Perez highlights the dangers present even at seemingly calm recreational river areas:

• Swift currents, submerged debris, and cold water hazards can challenge even experienced swimmers.

• Warehouse Beach’s bluff-to-island swim route is especially risky in deeper, shifting currents and lack of lifeguard coverage.

• The community’s rescue services acted quickly and collaboratively across multiple agencies, underscoring the seriousness with which public safety is handled in Umatilla County

Remembering Luis Adrian Oropeza Perez

Luis Adrian Oropeza Perez was just 20 years old—a life cut tragically short. While his hometown was not disclosed in official statements, this incident struck deeply among family, friends, and local community members, and serves as a painful reminder of how quickly recreational outings can turn tragic.

Broader Context: Swimming Risks in Oregon

Drownings in Oregon’s rivers and lakes remain a persistent concern:

• Data from public health and media sources confirm that many drowning incidents occur each summer, especially in natural bodies of water like the Columbia River, even among people who are otherwise healthy and active

• Organizations across the state continue to emphasize river safety measures—life jacket use, awareness of water temperature and currents, and educating the public about bystander rescue procedures

Key Takeaways & Reflections