54-year-old dies in Yakima River in W. Richland while floating with friends

A 54-year-old man was found dead Sunday in the Yakima River near West Richland while floating with friends, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office said.

Dwayne Wilson, 54, of the Tri-Cities, was with two friends on inner tubes tied together on June 29.

They stopped along the shore for a break in the evening but when they restarted Wilson became separated from his tube, said sheriff’s Lt. Mike Clark.

Wilson began trying to swim to catch up with his friends, but began struggling in the water near the Van Giesen Street bridge.

His friends were not able to fight against the current to get back to him. Wilson, who wasn’t wearing a life jacket, went under the water about 9:15 p.m.

Deputies along with other local agencies searched the river, and called in divers from Columbia Basin Dive Rescue to help. They found his body about 11 p.m.

Detectives are investigating, but Clark said it appears his death was an accidental drowning.

Benton County Coroner Bill Leach said it’s still being determined if Wilson drowned or suffered a medical problem. An autopsy is being scheduled for later this week.

This story was originally published July 1, 2025 at 11:50 AM.