Body Recovered from Stanislaus River Near Basso Bridge in LaGrange, County Officials Investigate

A dead body was recovered from the Stanislaus River near the Basso Bridge in the LaGrange area of Stanislaus County on Friday, just before 5 p.m. The Modesto Fire Department and the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office worked together to locate the body after gaining access to the river from the shore.

Modesto Fire officials explained that the river’s low flows prevented the use of boats, so a hoist was employed to lift the body out of the water. The recovered remains were then relocated to a secure location for further investigation. The incident is part of a developing story, and authorities have not yet released details about the identity of the deceased or the cause of death.

The Stanislaus River is a 96‑mile tributary of the San Joaquin River that flows through the San Joaquin Valley. The river is heavily used for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and domestic water supply. In June 2026, flow measurements at the river’s lower reaches typically range from 700 to 1,000 cubic feet per second on weekends, according to the California Department of Water Resources. The low flow conditions reported on Friday are consistent with the river’s seasonal patterns and the stepped release plan managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

The Basso Bridge, a historic pedestrian bridge built in 1911, spans the Stanislaus River near the small unincorporated community of LaGrange. LaGrange is located in the eastern part of Stanislaus County and is surrounded by agricultural land. The bridge has been a local landmark for over a century and is now used primarily for walking and fishing access.

Stanislaus County’s emergency services are coordinated by the Modesto Fire Department and the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office. The fire department’s River Delta Fire District includes specialized crews trained for water rescues, while the sheriff’s office operates a dedicated dive team that assists in recovering bodies and evidence from the river.

This recovery follows a series of drownings in the county. According to county records, the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office has recovered the bodies of eight individuals from the river this year. The most recent incident, involving a body found near the Basso Bridge, adds to the ongoing concern about river safety in the region.

Investigators are currently examining the recovered remains to determine the cause and manner of death. The county’s coroner’s office will conduct an autopsy, and the sheriff’s office will review any evidence that may explain how the individual entered the water. No public statements have been made regarding a potential suspect or motive.

The incident underscores the importance of river safety and the challenges posed by low flow conditions. The Stanislaus River’s flow is controlled by a series of dams and releases, which can create unpredictable currents and make navigation difficult for both recreational users and emergency responders.

County officials have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution when near the river, especially during periods of low flow. The sheriff’s office has reminded the public that the river can be hazardous, and that any suspicious activity or potential foul play should be reported immediately.

As the investigation continues, the Modesto Fire Department and the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office remain on alert for any additional incidents. The county’s emergency services are prepared to respond to future emergencies on the Stanislaus River and to provide updates as more information becomes available.

The recovery of the body near the Basso Bridge is a reminder of the ongoing risks associated with the Stanislaus River and the need for continued vigilance by both authorities and the community.