MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — A 46-year-old kayaker is being praised by local officials after rescuing a man from the Columbia River on Sunday, November 16.
The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and the City of Portland’s Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) are recognizing Solomon Florea for his quick action that likely saved the life of a 38-year-old man found struggling in the cold water near North Portland Harbor.
Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell called the rescue a defining moment of community heroism. “It was one of those moments when everything seemed to align perfectly,” she said, praising the teamwork between first responders and Florea.
BOEC Interim Director Steve Mawdsley also credited the collaboration between dispatchers and Florea, noting that he “jumped into action and saved a life through his quick, calm, and skilled intervention.”
From Home to Hero
Florea told dispatchers he was at home when he spotted an empty sailboat drifting on the river and a man bobbing in the water nearby. It remains unclear how the man ended up in distress.
Florea immediately launched his kayak, reached the man, and pulled him ashore. He wrapped the victim in layers to help raise his body temperature while communicating with BOEC Senior Dispatcher Holly Campbell.
Although the man was conscious, he was severely cold and disoriented. Deputies estimate the river temperature that day was around 57 degrees, and the patient’s condition deteriorated as they waited for help.
The location on Hayden Island has limited vehicle access; Florea’s knowledge of the area helped Portland Fire & Rescue’s Marine Program and the MCSO River Patrol Unit find them. Paramedics treated the man at the scene before he was transported to the hospital by American Medical Response (AMR). Doctors later treated and released him.
Officials said the man had appropriate safety gear on board — including a flotation device, whistle and cellphone — but was still unable to self-rescue.
Safety Reminders
Local agencies say the incident underscores the year-round dangers of the Columbia and Willamette rivers, where cold water, changing conditions, and boating mishaps can quickly turn deadly.
The Sheriff’s Office urged anyone recreating on the water to:
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File a float plan with someone you trust
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Stay aware of changing river conditions
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Always wear a properly fitted life jacket
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Take boater safety and first-aid courses
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Keep lifesaving equipment accessible
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Ensure watercraft are properly outfitted per Oregon law
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Never boat or swim while impaired
Officials say Florea’s swift action and coordinated emergency response prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.
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