BEND, Ore. — The Deschutes River has a new guest star, and no, it wasn’t a kayaker or paddleboarder—it was a Subaru Outback.
Around 3:48 a.m. Friday morning, a passerby noticed a set of headlights beaming underwater near Riverbend Park and did what anyone would do: called 911 to report a vehicle trying to cosplay as a submarine.
Responding officers dove in—literally—to check if anyone was inside the 2022 silver Outback. After some chilly swimming, Bend Police and Fire crews confirmed the vehicle was empty. Thankfully, no driver or passengers were found practicing their breath-holding skills.
Authorities are investigating the incident as a possible theft, though locals may chalk it up to Oregon’s unofficial state car simply testing its all-terrain limits. River, road, mountain—Subaru tries them all.
If you know who sent their Outback for an early-morning float test, Bend Police would like to hear from you. In the meantime, the Deschutes River will be bragging about its new wheels until further notice.
