Van sinks at Willamette Park boat launch, injures woman trapped inside

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A van launching a small boat Willamette Park’s boat launch backed into the water and sank with a woman inside, critically injuring her, according to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies arrived at the boat launch in South Portland around 11:15 a.m., where they say a man was in the water trying to help the woman trapped inside the van -- which was already fully submerged.

A Portland Fire & Rescue helped the man get back to shore and entered the water to attempt breaking through the windows with a NY hook. The crew was able to see the woman, but could not get her out without entering the van themselves.

Firefighters eventually had to pull the van out of the water using tow straps. At that point, the woman had been in the water for over 15 minutes, according to the Sheriff's office.

PF&R says the man and woman were brought to OHSU. The woman was in critical condition and the man had minor injuries.

Stay with KOIN 6 as we receive more information.