July 25, 2023 - Mariposa County Sheriff's Office officials report on Sunday evening, July 23, around 6:00 P.M. Alans Alvarenga from Merced swam across the Merced River near McCabe Flat campground. When attempting to swim back across he was swept downriver.
Deputies and Search and Rescue began searching immediately along with staff from the Bureau of Land Management. Monday morning staff from the Fresno Sheriff's Office along with their helicopter Eagle One and the Madera Sheriff's Office Drone Team began assisting with the search.
While the search continues, we ask that you avoid the area as trained search teams with extensive knowledge of the area and the river continue to work.
In the days prior the Sheriff's Office responded to the same area for a potential drowning where the victim was resuscitated and another drowning where the victim was not able to be resuscitated.
Visitors to the Merced River are reminded to follow all warnings and be aware of the dangers of swimming in rivers and other natural environments. https://www.redcross.org/.../water.../lake-river-safety.html
Source: Mariposa County Sheriff's Office
