Deputies are investigating after a 4-year-old boy survived being tossed into the Wynoochee River from a bridge about 25 feet above. His mother and a 35-year-old man could face charges.
The Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Department is investigating after a small child was apparently tossed into the Wynoochee River from a bridge about 25 feet above the water.
“We are looking at reckless endangerment charges for the mother and the 35-year-old man who tossed the child,” said Chief Criminal Deputy Steve Shumate.
Video of the incident was posted to Facebook.
Warning: Video contains graphic language
“It just looks like he’s thrown like a rag doll,” Shumate said.
The boy was not injured.
The department has interviewed both the boy’s mother and the alleged tosser. Shumate said the two suspects had met at the riverbank earlier in the day. He said deputies are working with Child Protective Services to investigate the incident.
The bridge, which is on private property, sits over a popular swimming hole just outside the town of Montesano. People often trespass and jump off the bridge, Shumate said. The man also is being investigated on suspicion of trespassing.
“This has been something that’s gone on for years and years,” he said. “It’s been problematic for us.”