Naomi Pomeroy, a beloved figure in the culinary industry, has tragically passed away at the age of 49. The self-trained chef, who gained fame for her acclaimed Portland restaurant Beast and appearances on shows like Iron Chef and Top Chef, was the victim of a tubing accident on the Willamette River.
According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Pomeroy, her husband Kyle Linden Webster, and a friend were tubing on the river when they encountered an “exposed snag in the water.” The group became entangled, and Pomeroy was pulled underwater, unable to free herself due to the “paddleboard leash.” Despite the efforts of the Corvallis Fire Department to rescue the trio, Pomeroy’s body was not immediately located.
A search was launched, and on July 17, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office announced that Pomeroy’s body had been found approximately half a mile upstream of Hyak Park, between the towns of Corvallis and Albany. The discovery was made by people canoeing on the river, who spotted the body.
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 22: Chef/Owner of Beast and Expatriate Naomi Pomeroy attends the All-Star Chef Classic at LA Live on March 22, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images)
The loss of Pomeroy has been deeply felt within the culinary community. Her restaurant, Beast, was renowned for its innovative and acclaimed cuisine, and she had made numerous appearances on popular television shows, showcasing her exceptional talents.
Pomeroy was a self-trained chef who rose to prominence within the industry, inspiring and mentoring countless aspiring culinary professionals. Her passion for her craft was evident in every dish she created, and her commitment to excellence was unparalleled.
“The Bravo and Top Chef family send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Chef Naomi Pomeroy,” the network and show wrote in a statement. “Naomi was a powerhouse chef who made an indelible mark on the culinary industry.”
The news of Pomeroy’s death has sent shockwaves through the culinary community, with many expressing their grief and paying tribute to her remarkable life and legacy. She was a trailblazer, a mentor, and a beloved figure who left an indelible mark on the industry.
As the industry mourns the loss of this talented chef, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Pomeroy’s passing is a devastating blow to the culinary world, and her memory will continue to inspire and guide those who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Naomi Pomeroy’s untimely passing is a tragic loss for the culinary community and beyond. Her exceptional talent, boundless creativity, and unwavering dedication to her craft left an indelible mark on the industry. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable chef, let us also celebrate her life and the profound impact she had on those she touched. Pomeroy’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide aspiring chefs, reminding us all of the power of passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
