In this provided photo, a small memorial for St. Helens City Administrator John Walsh who fell into the Columbia River on June 13, 2026. His body was recovered on June 20, 2026.
Courtesy of the City of St. Helens
St. Helens City Administrator John Walsh’s body was recovered Saturday, a week after he fell into the Columbia River and went missing.
St. Helens police said officers responded to a report of a possible body in the water near the city’s docks around 5 p.m. Saturday. The body was recovered and identified as Walsh near the same location where he was seen falling into the river on June 13.
In a statement Saturday, city officials said Walsh will be “remembered for his dedication to and love for his family, calm demeanor, and commitment to his community and profession.” Earlier in the day, the city held a procession in his honor during the annual St. Helens Kiwanis Community Parade.
Walsh served as St. Helens’ city administrator for nearly 14 years. He sat on several boards and was recognized for his service to local government by the International City/County Management Association. Before coming to St. Helens, he served in Myrtle Point, Oregon, and in Washington.
Walsh was reported missing late on June 13 after entering the Columbia River and failing to resurface. Two days later, local officials transitioned the search into a recovery effort, presuming he had died. The city said Walsh “accidentally fell into the water” and law enforcement doesn’t suspect foul play.
St. Helens Finance Director Gloria Butsch has been appointed interim city administrator.
