Non-Witness Narrative by (do not publish name) on 2006-07-25 (DO NOT PUBLISH): TEXT ATTACHMENTS http://www.timesdispatch.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=RTD/MGArticle/RTD_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1137833572187 Kayaker drowned in James River BY JIM NOLAN TIMES-DISPATCH STAFF WRITER Jan 21, 2006 An experienced kayaker who was part of a group navigating the rapids of the James River in Richmond today capsized and drowned, officials said. The death occurred about 11:30 a.m. as a group of six or eight kayakers approached the western tip of Belle Isle in preparation to navigate the Hollywood Rapids. Richmond Fire Lt. Mark Rada said the kayakers had put in around Reedy Creek and had just paddled past Dead Head Rock when the victim?s kayak overturned. The victim, a woman whose identity was not released pending notification of relatives, tried to right herself, but during the struggle, her kayak got off line, group members told police and firefighters. The swift current carried the woman underneath a large pile of logs and debris right above the rapids, sucking her and her kayak underwater. Members of the group paddled to the pile and frantically tried to locate her under the debris. Somebody called 911. Within minutes, the Richmond Fire Department?s water rescue unit responded, and a Virginia State Police helicopter circled overhead. About 10 minutes after the woman went under, her kayak popped to the surface along with an empty lifejacket. Rescuers searched the pile and areas down the river. Her body was found two hours later beneath the rapids. Police tonight said the victim was believed to be about 50 years old and had more than 20 years experience on the river as a kayaker and instructor. The river was high today, just under 9 feet, but not considered too high for professional and experienced kayakers such as the victim. Paddlers are required to obtain permits for river use once the level rises to 9 feet.