Naomi Pomeroy, a celebrated chef known for her appearances on Top Chef, has tragically passed away at the age of 49.
Pomeroy’s body was discovered in a river on July 17, days after she was reported missing. According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, the cause of death was drowning.
The investigation revealed that Pomeroy, her husband Kyle Linden Webster, and a friend had become entangled while using tubes and a paddleboard that were connected. Despite efforts by the Corvallis Fire Department to rescue all three, Pomeroy could not be recovered initially. The other two adults were safely transported to shore.
At the time of her disappearance, Sheriff Van Arsdall expressed his office’s commitment to finding Pomeroy, saying, “This office is dedicated to locating Naomi and bringing her home to her family and loved ones. I want to thank all involved in the search and recovery mission during this difficult time.”
Pomeroy’s body was later found by a group of canoers. Authorities noted that she was unable to free herself due to the paddleboard leash.
A renowned figure in Portland’s culinary scene, Pomeroy rose to prominence after opening her acclaimed restaurant, Beast, in 2007. Just two years later, she was named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs. In 2013, she and her husband opened the cocktail bar Expatriate. The following year, she won the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific.
Pomeroy also made several TV appearances, competing on Iron Chef and Top Chef Masters, while serving as a guest judge on multiple seasons of Top Chef.
In the wake of her passing, Bravo and the Top Chef team released a statement on social media platform X, extending their sympathies: “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.”
May she rest in peace.
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