PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Rather than name its new rescue boat in honor of a former firefighter, the Portland Fire Bureau is remembering two children tossed into the Willamette River by their mother.
Four-year-old Eldon Smith drowned on May 23, 2009. His sister Trinity Smith survived.
The new $400,000 boat will be named Eldon Trinity. The Oregonian says now-8-year-old Trinity will help dedicate it on Dec. 7.
City Commissioner Randy Leonard asked for the name. He says the new boat will ensure a quicker response for future river rescues in the downtown area.
Amanda Stott-Smith pleaded guilty last April to aggravated murder and attempted aggravated murder and has been sentenced to at least 35 years in prison.
