Naomi Pomeroy, a renowned chef known for her appearances on cooking shows like 'Top Chef Masters' and her award-winning restaurants, has tragically passed away at the age of 49 in a tubing accident on the Willamette River in Oregon. The incident occurred when Pomeroy and two other adults became entangled while on tubes and a paddle board, causing her to be pulled underwater due to the paddleboard leash.
Born in Corvallis, Oregon, Pomeroy opened her Portland restaurant Beast in 2007. She gained national recognition when she competed on 'Top Chef Masters' in 2011 and was eliminated before the finale. Despite this setback, she continued to make appearances as a guest judge on various cooking shows such as 'Iron Chef,' 'The Taste,' and 'Knife Fight.'
In 2014, Pomeroy received the James Beard Foundation Award for best chef in the northwest region. Her restaurant, Beast, was known for its groundbreaking fine-dining destination that helped establish Portland as a hub of culinary excellence.
Pomeroy's tragic death has left her husband Kyle Linden Webster and their daughter August devastated. The Benton County Sheriff's Office continues to search for her body, but the heavy debris in the water makes it difficult to locate any signs of Naomi.
The culinary community is mourning the loss of a true pioneer and innovator in Portland's food scene. Her family asks for privacy during this difficult time.
It is important to note that rivers are inherently dangerous, and the Benton County Sheriff's Office advises against tying oneself to a paddle board or inner tubes together while recreating on the water. Always prioritize safety when engaging in water activities.
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