BURBANK, WA – The Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that a missing kayaker reported near the confluence of the Snake and Columbia River has been found deceased.
The kayaker, identified as 20-year-old Jostin L. Garcia Montes of Pasco, WA, was located around 5:25 p.m. Wednesday by Columbia Basin Dive Rescue personnel. Detectives and the Coroner received him from Dive Rescue and are continuing their investigation into the exact cause of death.
Garcia Montes was reported missing after a 911 call Tuesday in which he stated he was drowning. The call, which reportedly was cut off shortly after it began, indicated he was possibly near the Burbank Slough off the Columbia River. Responding deputies and multiple partner agencies, including the Washington State Fish and Wildlife, Walla Walla Fire District 5, College Place Police, Pasco Police, and Washington State Patrol, launched an immediate search.
Search efforts over the following day involved foot patrols, aerial drone teams, and water searches. Authorities recovered a kayak and personal belongings in the area but had not located the kayaker until Wednesday evening.
Sheriff’s Office officials expressed gratitude to Columbia Basin Dive Rescue for their role in locating Garcia Montes and extended condolences to the family during this difficult time. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, though there is currently no indication of foul play.
