Your Tuesday evening update on Salem news

Good evening, Salem.

Our story about the heroic effort of Derik Morganstern touched people, based on messages and social media comments.

Morganstern died after jumping into the Willamette River to save a woman. She survived but divers searched for days before finding his body.

What struck people was this was a homeless man.

A sampling of comments from readers:

•“We spend so much time destroying each other and judging we forget we’re all broken and regardless the way he lived his life he lost his saving another.”

•“I see people talking down about unhoused and addicted folks. I’ve seen those people have far more kindness and community sensibility than those who deride them though.”

•“This man didn’t hesitate to save the life of a stranger. He was a hero. He had a heart that cared about another person. We should all be like him and care for others.”

Some were grateful we told his story: “It is unbearable to realize that no one else would have covered this story. Your research and reporting are thoughtful and informative. Excellent job for his family and your readers.”

Reporter Abbey McDonald approached the story with care and respect. The result is a must-read story, which we’re sharing again this evening.

Read all our latest coverage anytime on our website.

www.salemreporter.com

St. Joseph’s arsonist sentenced to prison one year after fire

Billy J. Sweeten has been sentenced to over three years in prison for intentionally lighting a recycling bin on fire which climbed up the walls of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church…

www.salemreporter.com

Salem blood cancer patients, caregivers launch support group

A new monthly peer support group will give hematologic cancer patients and caregivers a community to talk about mental health challenges and navigating treatment.

www.salemreporter.com

Salem man loses life attempting Willamette River rescue

Derik Morganstern watched a woman jump off the Union Street Bridge into the water below. The lifelong Salemite and resident of the Wallace Marine Park encampment did not hesitate to…

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St. Joseph’s arsonist sentenced to prison one year after fire

Salem blood cancer patients, caregivers launch support group

Salem man loses life attempting Willamette River rescue

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