News Release

Search for woman in Sequoia National Park transitions to limited continuous mode as river conditions remain too dangerous to enter

Date: June 5, 2025
Contact: Sintia Kawasaki-Yee

Search efforts for 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of Los Angeles have transitioned to a limited continuous mode, meaning fewer resources are assigned to the search at this time. Public information is posted in the area and rescue staff will continue to monitor the river. When river conditions improve, possibly in the coming weeks, the team will reevaluate next steps.  

Jomarie was swept away by the cold and extremely fast river currents of the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River near Paradise Creek Bridge in the foothills of Sequoia National Park while recreating with friends and family over the Memorial Day weekend.  

The multi-agency search effort lasted nine days before scaling down due to dangerous river conditions. Officials believe that Jomarie could still be located within the park, however, due to current river conditions, divers are unable to complete an underwater search of the river. Searchers have used a broad range of techniques including ground search and rescue, canines, underwater live stream camera, and aerial searches via helicopter and unmanned aerial system. 

Park officials urgently advise visitors to stay out of the water and away from riverbanks during elevated river flow conditions. The river current is fast and cold due to increased temperatures causing snowpack melt from higher elevations. Even areas that appear calm have strong currents that can quickly overpower even the most experienced swimmers. Rocks near the river are extremely slippery, which can lead to accidental slips into the cold, fast-moving waters. 

We are thankful for the dedicated aid of our neighboring agencies and for all of the people who have been involved in the search for Jomarie.  

Any sightings should be reported immediately to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Dispatch at 888-677-2746.