After five days of searching for a missing kayaker who reportedly went over Willamette Falls Saturday night, April 12, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s office has identified the individual as 20-year-old Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez of Porterville, California.

“Investigators learned Marcelus and his family were on vacation and arrived in the area on Saturday evening,” the sheriff’s office stated in a press release April 17. “Marcelus was last seen kayaking in the area and may not have known the falls were there.”

The sheriff’s office shared that despite extensive efforts, Rodriguez still has not been located as of Thursday.

“The Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit is continuing to search the river to bring closure to Marcelus’ family,” the press release stated.

In a statement shared with the sheriff’s office, Rodriguez’ family urged others to always be cautious on the river and wear a life jacket.

You can read the family’s entire statement below:

“We, the family of Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez, are truly devastated by the tragic event that unfolded this past Saturday in the Willamette Falls area, and we would not wish this experience on anyone. Our family is making every effort to heal and come to terms with our loss.

We would like to first warn others to always be aware of their surroundings and to NEVER enter this river without wearing a life jacket or, at the very least, exercising extreme caution, as the forces of nature can quickly become overwhelming and deadly.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the teams of first responders who rushed to our aid and continue to search for our boy. We also thank the locals and fishermen out on the water who have been watchful and helpful during this difficult time. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office has treated us with care and compassion, and we are forever grateful for their efforts.

Marcelus loved God, his family, and nature. We hope that this tragic accident can be avoided in the future for other families. May God keep watch over Marcelus and bless him always.”