YAKIMA, Wash.- A man died at the Gap-2-Gap racing event on the Yakima River this morning after several attempts to save the 84-year-old’s life.
According to the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO), at 9:35 a.m., a racing participant spotted the 84-year-old man in the river and tried to rescue him. The participant was able to get the attention of the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office’s Marine Patrol team, the Yakima City Firefighters, and Gap-2-Gap volunteers to rescue the drowning man.
Ambulance officials performed lifesaving efforts on the 84-year-old man but could not revive him.
Officials later confirmed that the deceased was a participant in the Gap-2-gap event. YCSO is investigating the accident.
According to Sergeant Brad Martin of the YCSO, it is imperative to wear a lifejacket that is appropriate, well-fitted, and in good condition for water-related recreation.
