Overview

• The unidentified man vanished from view after leaping from a rope swing into the Russian River near Hacienda Bridge at about 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
• Local fire departments, Cal Fire crews and a California Highway Patrol helicopter scoured the river following witness reports of the disappearance.
• Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office declared the mission a body recovery operation as crews search for the man’s remains.
• The recent drowning is the third fatality on the Russian River this month, following unrelated deaths at Monte Rio and Martinelli beaches.
• Authorities emphasized that unpredictable currents and hidden hazards mean swimmers of all skill levels should wear life jackets and avoid going in the water alone.