Tragedy on Vacation: Florida Woman & Texas Friend Killed in Oregon Waterfall Plunge

Deschutes County, Oregon / Parkland, Florida – What began as a joyful afternoon of river tubing ended in heartbreak for a group of friends when their float down Oregon’s scenic Deschutes River took a deadly turn. Six friends were swept over Dillon Falls, a dangerous, rock-laden drop known for its ferocity. Now, two women — Lindsay Bashan, 33, of Parkland, Florida, and Amanda Lloyd, 40, of Rockwall, Texas — have been confirmed dead. A third person remains missing.

From Celebration to Catastrophe

The group was reportedly vacationing in Oregon, floating down the Deschutes River on inner tubes tied together. As they neared Dillon Falls, warning signs attempted to alert them to the imminent danger, but they failed to exit the river in time. The water swept them over the 15-foot waterfall into a violent stretch of Class V rapids filled with boulders and debris.

Authorities say that three people were able to escape and reach shore, shaken but with only minor injuries. The remaining three were caught in the deadly current.

Victims Identified: Lives Cut Short

On Monday, authorities confirmed the identities of two of the victims:

• Lindsay Bashan, 33, of Parkland, FL, was a vibrant woman remembered for her optimism and adventurous spirit. She had just accepted a new job opportunity and was reportedly looking forward to moving to New York City.

• Amanda Lloyd, 40, of Rockwall, TX, was known for her passion for travel and her successful career in real estate. Family and friends described her as a “light in every room” and someone who radiated joy and strength.

The body of one woman was recovered on Saturday; the second was located on Monday after an intense search. A third person remains missing, and recovery teams continue the search.

Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, supported by fire and rescue teams, has deployed divers, drones, underwater sonar, and dog teams to assist in the search. However, swift currents, dangerous rocks, and log debris have made recovery operations extremely difficult.

Sheriff Shane Nelson said, “This is a tragic reminder of the power of nature. Our hearts go out to the families of these young people.”

Dillon Falls: A Known Hazard

Dillon Falls is widely considered one of the most treacherous areas on the Deschutes River. While it’s a beautiful natural feature, it has a reputation for danger — especially to unaware visitors. Warning signs are posted along the riverbanks, but not all travelers understand the seriousness of the hazard until it’s too late.

Local river guides say the area has been the site of multiple rescues and fatalities in recent years.

Communities Grieve From Coast to Coast

In Parkland, Florida, where Lindsay Bashan was raised, the loss has deeply shaken her family and friends. Vigils are being planned, and social media is flooded with tributes to her warmth, humor, and zest for life.

Meanwhile, in Texas, Amanda Lloyd’s community is reeling from the news. Loved ones are remembering her adventurous spirit and the love she had for her family and her two dogs.

What You Should Know

This tragedy has reignited discussions around:

• River safety and signage at recreational areas,

• Access to emergency exits in natural bodies of water,

• And the importance of preparation before water-based activities, even for experienced adventurers.

Two lives full of promise were lost in an instant. Another person remains missing, and families across Florida and Texas are mourning while awaiting answers. This event is a sobering reminder that nature, while breathtakingly beautiful, can turn deadly in the blink of an eye.

Let this story inspire caution, reflection — and most of all, compassion for those whose lives were forever changed by a weekend that was meant to be a simple adventure.