A Portland man is missing after police say he intentionally drove a van carrying his wife into the Clackamas River Thursday evening and floated away.
The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office says Daniel Wayne Findley, 51, drove into the river at the Barton Park boat ramp in Boring, around 6:30 p.m. The woman told police that they had not discussed going to Barton, and Findley did not say anything when they turned into the park.
Findley then drove onto the boat ramp and accelerated, still without saying anything, according to police. They estimate the van hit the river going 35 to 40 mph. The woman injured her knee in the impact, but both were able to escape the vehicle through the driver’s door.
The woman made her way to shore and was assisted by people there. Findley swam to the center of the river and began to float downstream.
Deputies responded to the area and deployed marine units and their boats, the Water Rescue Team, and a canine team to search for Findley, who is wanted for fourth-degree domestic assault, reckless endangering and failure to perform the duties of a driver.
The Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium deployed to the location to in case a water rescue was needed. The suspect was not located.
The water rescue team worked with Clackamas River Towing to remove the half-submerged van from the water. Deputies are still looking for the suspect. If you see Findley or know his whearabouts, police ask that you please call 911.
