Russian River kayaker rescued after capsizing

A Monte Rio kayaker capsized Tuesday and was swept downstream before he was helped to shore by his companion with the help of rescue swimmers, Sonoma County sheriff’s officials said.

Brandon Johnson, 30, had been wearing a life vest during the trip, but had just removed it as he prepared to paddle to shore in Monte Rio, Sgt. Cecile Focha said. His kayak was caught sideways by the current and Johnson was tossed into the water. Fellow kayaker Rigel Partyka, 24, also of Monte Rio, yelled for help and began paddling after Johnson, Focha said.

A woman on shore heard Partyka and called 911 at about 11:30 a.m. Deputies from the Guerneville substation and marine unit and Monte Rio firefighters arrived within 10 minutes, Focha said. Partyka had grabbed Johnson and rescuers helped pull the pair to shore about 600 yards downstream from where Johnson capsized, Focha said. Johnson appeared to be suffering from hypothermia and was taken to a hospital.

Both Johnson and Partyka know the Russian River well, according to Focha. Partyka still was wearing a life vest during the incident, but Johnson’s vest quickly disappeared, swept downstream, when he was tossed into the river, she said.

“We remind you that the rivers are very swollen and swift with the recent rains. Levels can rise unpredictably and there are many underwater obstacles that pose an unseen hazard,” Focha said in a press release.

“The water itself is very cold and poses the greatest danger to recreational boaters,” she said.