CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. – The Washington State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a person was found dead inside a car submerged in the Columbia River.
WSP said that traffic delays are expected on Highway 97A as crews work to remove the car. WSP said the highway closed at 3 p.m. to allow for the recovery operation, according to District 6’s public information officer.
WPS said that the car was located on Monday morning by Chelan County deputies using a helicopter. WSP said the car was found about 20 feet from shore in roughly 10 feet of water. A person was found dead inside.
Troopers said that they believe the car entered the river sometime on Tuesday or Wednesday, though the exact timing remains unclear. WSP said it appears to be a single-car crash and crews are still working to remove the car.
Travelers are advised to use Highway 97 on the east side of the Columbia River as an alternate route. Officials urge drivers to be patient, use headlights and drive according to conditions in the area.
A detour will be available via Highway 97 in Douglas County. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
