A man drowned Monday after falling into Thor’s Well, the third such fatality since 2017 at the notoriously dangerous natural feature near Cape Perpetua, just south of Yachats, according to The Lincoln Chronicle and the Yachats Fire Department.
Emergency crews were dispatched around 3:40 p.m. after witnesses reported that the man had been swept into the churning sinkhole by an incoming tide. By the time responders arrived, the victim was already dead inside the 20- to 30-foot-deep hole carved into the basalt along the Pacific Ocean, about 100 yards west of Highway 101.
The U.S. Coast Guard responded with a helicopter from its North Bend station. A rescue swimmer, lowered on a cable into the crashing surf, recovered the man’s body roughly 30 minutes after the initial 911 call.
Personnel from fire departments in Yachats, Waldport, and Seal Rock assisted at the scene, along with Oregon State Police and Lincoln County’s chief medical examiner. In a Facebook post, Yachats Fire Department noted that initial reports from bystanders were conflicting, but responders quickly confirmed the man was trapped inside Thor’s Well. Because of the hazardous conditions, ground crews were unable to attempt an immediate recovery.
According to the Yachats Rural Fire Protection District Facebook Page, "A United States Coast Guard helicopter from North Bend arrived at approximately 4:10 PM. After two unsuccessful attempts, the USCG rescue swimmer was able to recover the deceased subject. Units began leaving the scene at 5:09 PM."
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Authorities have not released the man’s identity but said he appeared to be traveling alone. A car with Colorado plates filled with camping gear and personal belongings was later towed from the Highway 101 parking lot.
Despite the heavy emergency presence, onlookers continued to crowd near the edge of Thor’s Well within an hour of the recovery, trying to catch a glimpse inside.
Thor’s Well is breathtaking to photograph, especially at high tide or during storms. But it’s also unpredictable; sneaker waves and sudden surges can sweep people in without warning. Signs near the site warn visitors to keep a safe distance, but accidents still happen.
This tragedy is yet another reminder: Oregon’s beauty commands respect. If you visit Thor’s Well, or any rugged stretch of our coast, admire it from a safe distance. No photo is worth your life.
Source: The Lincoln Chronicle
