News
Released: May 4, 2026 - Monday, 03:11 PM
The Coroner's Unit of the Sheriff's Office has identified the kayaker who drowned on 5-2-2026 in Montana de Oro State Park.
He has been identified as 78-year-old Ralph Sutter of Arroyo Grande.
On 5-2-2026, Sheriff's Deputies responded to Montana de Oro regarding an adult male kayaker in distress. Witness reported that the kayaker was flipped over by waves. As a result, it appears the life vest he was wearing somehow slipped off his body.
Sutter was located and CPR was performed but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Next of kin have been notified.
Our thoughts are with Mr. Sutter's family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Drowning Victim Identified
Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: 805-781-4547Date and time of incident: 5-2-2026, Approximately 10:20 AMPlace of Occurrence: Montana de Oro State ParkVictim Information: Ralph Sutter, 78, Arroyo GrandeSuspect Information: N/AThe Coroner's Unit of the Sheriff's Office has identified the kayaker who drowned on 5-2-2026 in Montana de Oro State Park.
He has been identified as 78-year-old Ralph Sutter of Arroyo Grande.
On 5-2-2026, Sheriff's Deputies responded to Montana de Oro regarding an adult male kayaker in distress. Witness reported that the kayaker was flipped over by waves. As a result, it appears the life vest he was wearing somehow slipped off his body.
Sutter was located and CPR was performed but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Next of kin have been notified.
Our thoughts are with Mr. Sutter's family and loved ones during this difficult time.
