“Body Found in Blue River Reservoir Identified as Mekenna Christine Reiley – Investigation Continues”

The body found in Blue River Reservoir has been identified as Mekenna Christine Reiley, who died by drowning. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is investigating her disappearance. The Sheriff’s Office and Lane County Emergency Management have created Facebook pages for residents to access up-to-date evacuation information for the Bedrock and Lookout fires. Evacuation levels have been increased for areas near the Bedrock Fire, and a Red Cross shelter is open for affected residents. The Lookout Fire has also prompted evacuation notices. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts. flashalert.net reported

UPDATE 08/15/2023 — The body found in Blue River Reservoir has been identified as Mekenna Christine Reiley, a 40-year-old resident of Blue River. The Oregon State Medical Examiner conducted a post-mortem examination and determined that Reiley died from drowning. There is no evidence of foul play, but the Lane County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating her disappearance.

In response to the Bedrock Fire and the Lookout Fire, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Lane County Emergency Management have created two new Facebook pages. These pages will provide up-to-date evacuation information, shelter details, animal evacuation resources, and other relevant information. It is recommended that residents follow these Facebook pages for the most accurate updates instead of relying on the main agency accounts.

Due to increased fire activity, Level 2 (Be Set) evacuation notifications have been issued for certain areas near the Bedrock Fire. The affected areas include Big Fall Creek Road, Peninsula Road, and Winberry Creek Road. Level 2 means residents must be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice, as conditions may rapidly deteriorate. An evacuation map is available on the Lane County website, and residents are advised to monitor their phones, local media, and the website for further information.

Level 3 (Go Now) evacuation notices are still in effect for Peninsula Road and Big Fall Creek Road due to the Bedrock Fire. Residents in these areas must leave immediately, without taking time to gather belongings. The danger is immediate and imminent, and emergency services may not be able to assist those who choose to ignore the evacuation notice. Residents are urged to sign up for emergency alerts at LaneAlerts.org.

The Lookout Fire near McKenzie Bridge has also prompted evacuation notices. Level 3 (Go Now) evacuation notices have been issued for Taylor Road, North Bank Road, and other areas north of Highway 126. Level 1 (Be Ready) evacuation notices are in effect for areas south of Highway 126. Residents should be aware of the danger, monitor local media outlets, and prepare for potential evacuation.

A Red Cross shelter is available at Lowell High School for residents and their small, domestic animals. For assistance with large animal evacuation and sheltering, residents should contact Lane County Animal Services. A non-emergency call center is also available for information and assistance.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating a death that occurred at Blue River Reservoir. The identity of the deceased and the cause of death are currently under investigation.

Due to the Bedrock Fire, Level 1 (Be Ready) evacuation notices have been issued for certain areas east of Fall Creek Reservoir. Residents in these areas should prepare for potential evacuation and closely monitor local media outlets and emergency alerts for further information..