Albany, OR. — The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man found deceased in the Willamette River on November 29 as 34-year-old Jonathan Avery Smith of Albany.
Smith was identified after investigators received community tips in response to tattoo images released publicly on December 9. Deputies notified his family before releasing his name to ensure relatives did not learn of his death through the media. According to the sheriff’s office, Smith had not been reported missing.
Deputies recovered his body around 4:15 p.m. near river mile 122 on the west side of the river by Hyak Park after a river-goer reported seeing a body floating in the water. Authorities believe he had been in the river for several days prior to recovery.
BCSO thanked community members for sharing the tattoo images and assisting in confirming Smith’s identity.
Investigators are now seeking information that may help determine the circumstances leading to his death. Anyone with relevant details is urged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov
or call the anonymous tip line at 541-753-8477 (TIPS).
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