‘Top Chef’ star Naomi Pomeroy found dead at 49 in river, days after going missing

Naomi Pomeroy, widely recognized for her culinary skills on Top Chef, has tragically passed away.
The Portland chef’s body was found in a river on July 17, after being reported missing a few days prior. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that she drowned.

The investigation showed that Pomeroy, her husband Kyle Linden Webster, and a friend became entangled while on tubes and a paddleboard that were connected.

Members of the Corvallis Fire Department retrieved the other two adults on the shore and transported them safely to a boat launch. Sadly, they were initially unable to recover Pomeroy, according to the sheriff’s office.

At the time of her disappearance, Sheriff Van Arsdall said, “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.”
Her body was located after it was spotted by a group of canoers. According to officials, she was unable to free herself because of the paddle board leash.

Pomeroy was a prominent figure in the Oregon culinary scene. She made a name for herself in Portland after opening her first restaurant, Beast, in 2007. Two years later, she was recognized as one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs.
In 2013, she and her husband launched a Portland cocktail bar named Expatriate. The following year, she received a James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific.

Pomeroy appeared on Iron Chef as well as Top Chef Masters, while she also served as guest judge on Top Chef in seasons 10, 15, and 18.

Following Naomi Pomeroy’s death, the show and its network, Bravo, released a statement on X, expressing their condolences.

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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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