Introduction to the Incident
The body of a La Puente woman who went missing in the Kaweah River in Sequoia National Park was found on July 24, officials said.
Jomarie Calasanz, 26, was swept into the river while visiting the park with friends and family on May 25, according to the National Park Service.
While swimming, Calasanz’s older sister began to get swept away, according to a GoFundMe organized by the family. Calasanz, a swimmer, jumped in to save her sister, and both were caught in the rapids, the post said. Her sister escaped the current, but Calasanz did not resurface.
“In her last moments she was a hero, we will honor her life by remembering her as such,” the family’s message read.
The Search Efforts
A search was launched but scaled back on June 5 due to unsafe river conditions and rugged terrain. Throughout July, crews used drones, dive and swiftwater rescue teams, ground searches and K9 units to continue looking for her.
Lower water levels on July 24 allowed teams to safely recover Calasanz’s body less than a mile from where she was last seen.
Response from Authorities
The National Park Service and Tulare County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to her family and urged visitors to stay away from swift water, even later in the season when flows are lower.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of being cautious near swift water, even for experienced swimmers. The heroic actions of Jomarie Calasanz will be remembered, and her family’s loss is a tragic reminder of the dangers that exist in natural environments. The successful recovery of her body brings closure to the family and the community, thanks to the diligent efforts of the search teams.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Jomarie Calasanz?
A: Jomarie Calasanz was swept into the Kaweah River in Sequoia National Park while trying to save her sister and did not resurface.
Q: When was her body found?
A: Her body was found on July 24, after a months-long search.
Q: What was the cause of the search being scaled back initially?
A: The search was scaled back due to unsafe river conditions and rugged terrain.
Q: What message did the family convey about Jomarie Calasanz?
A: The family remembered her as a hero in her last moments, honoring her life by acknowledging her selfless act to save her sister.
Q: When was the incident originally published?
A: Originally Published: August 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM PDT
