19-Year-Old Petaluma Man Found Dead in Truckee River
Brian Marcellino Gallardo, 19, of Petaluma, California, was found deceased on March 23, 2026, after disappearing while swimming in the Truckee River near Floriston on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) initiated a search on Saturday with support from multiple agencies, including Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, Placer County Sheriff’s Office, Truckee Police, Truckee Fire, CalFIRE, CHP Air Operations, and the Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada, Inc. The search involved K9 teams, drones, helicopters, swift water rescue teams, rescue swimmers, and ground searchers.
Divers from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office ultimately located Gallardo’s body on Monday, March 23, 2026. Authorities reported that Gallardo went underwater around 3 p.m. On March 21 and did not resurface.
Dangerous River Conditions
The NCSO is urging the public to exercise caution around waterways, noting that river conditions are currently fast-moving and cold. Officials warn that these conditions are particularly dangerous due to early snowmelt and increased water flows.
Statement from the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office recognized the incident as a profound loss for Gallardo’s family and friends. The NCSO stated that drownings are especially difficult incidents with lasting impacts on families, responders, and the community.
Details regarding the official cause of death have not been released.
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