We are deeply saddened to report that beloved Top Chef star Naomi Pomeroy has been found dead in a river at the young age of 49. Her body was discovered on July 17, following a tubing accident that occurred a few days prior.

According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Naomi, her husband Kyle Linden Webster, and a friend were participating in a tubing and paddleboarding activity when they became entangled in the water. Tragically, Naomi was pulled underwater after encountering an obstruction and was unable to free herself due to the paddleboard leash.

While the Corvallis Fire Department successfully rescued Webster and their friend, Naomi’s body was initially not found. After an exhaustive search, Naomi’s remains were located on the Willamette River, half a mile upstream of Hyak Park, between the towns of Corvallis and Albany.

Naomi Pomeroy was a self-trained chef who gained immense popularity in the culinary industry after opening the highly acclaimed Portland restaurant Beast in 2007. Her talent and expertise led her to appear on notable shows such as Iron Chef and Top Chef Masters. Additionally, she served as a guest judge on multiple seasons of Top Chef, including 10, 15, and 18.

The Bravo network, which aired Top Chef, expressed their condolences to Naomi’s family and friends, acknowledging her significant contributions to the culinary industry. In a statement, they said, “The Bravo and Top Chef family send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Chef Naomi Pomeroy. Naomi was a powerhouse chef who made an indelible mark on the culinary industry.”

We mourn the passing of Naomi Pomeroy, remembering her as an exceptional chef and a cherished member of the Top Chef community. May she rest in peace.