Naomi Pomeroy was a legend in Portland for her culinary skills. She opened multiple restaurants in Portland, the first of which was named Beast. This restaurant earned her a James Beard Award.

Beast closed in 2020, but that wasn’t the end of her career. She opened Ripe Cooperative in 2022, and just recently, she opened a custard shop called Cornet Custard.

Sadly, Pomeroy died on Saturday July 13, 2024, in a tragic accident. KGW8 reports that she was enjoying time with friends at the Willamette River when the accident occurred.

 

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Pomeroy, her husband, and two of their friends were floating down the river in three inner tubes around 8pm. The three inner tubes were all tied together, and all went well until they hit a snag. Pomeroy went under water and ended up drowning. Her husband and friends survived.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Corvallis Fire Department worked together to find Pomeroy’s body, which they accomplished around 8:25 pm. However, a strong current caused her body to float down stream and away from rescuers. As of Tuesday, her body has yet to be recovered. Police ask the public to notify them if they see her body.

Sheriff Van Arsdall said, “I am dedicated to locating Naomi to bring her home to her family and loved ones.”

During the pandemic, Pomeroy worked alongside Congressman Earl Blumenauer to help save restaurants. In a statement after hearing of Pomreoy’s death, Blumenaurer said, “What a loss. Naomi was not just a fabulous chef and entrepreneur, but an amazing human being.” He added, “Her impact went far beyond Portland, helping establish our leadership and reputation for food excellence. She will be greatly missed.”

Watch the video below to learn more about Pomeroy and her tragic death.

Pomeroy was only 49 years old. She is survived by her husband and daughter.