Sad news from Hood River

I started hearing about this yesterday but couldn't track down any good info.  Condolences if he was a friend or family to anyone here.  I've been in their shop many times.  A terrible thing on a beautiful Fall day.  Having it happen on my home waters hits a little harder.  Be careful out there.

"Man presumed dead after empty kayak found on Columbia River near Hood River"

https://www.oregonlive.com/crime/2026/10/man-presumed-dead-after-empty-kayak-found-on-columbia-river-near-hood-river.html?outputType=amp

I was sad to hear it. Please be safe out there, everyone...

Fred "True" Trujillo

An update....body has been found.  https://katu.com/news/local/body-of-missing-kayaker-david-kalousdian-near-hood-river-found

Sad news indeed, the news report that his fishing kayak was found adrift last week with its electric trolling motor still running. I don't use a motorized kayak, but I use a kill switch when fishing solo out of my power boat. I see more and more motorized kayaks, do people use kill switchs on them? Seems the chances of going "into the drink" are higher on a kayak, yet most/all trolling motors I know do not come with a kill switch.
It is further reported that the sherif's office determined that the deceased kayaker's inflatable PFD did not have a recharge kit installed, which meant it did not work. A tragic reminder to always wear a PFD and make sure it works as intended.