for the 3,500-plus attendees of the event posted on Facebook, Rafting Gone Wild.
Though it remains unclear as to who created the event, it was discovered that at least two California State University, San Jose students were more than happy to take credit for attracting so many to the American River Sunday - many of which hailed from San Jose and neighboring suburban towns.
What started as a simple Facebook public invite quickly turned into something much, much larger as nearly 12,000 people left an RSVP to attend the event.
It was a wake up call for local law enforcement and rescue teams that had been monitoring the event when a concerned parent contacted one news group in the area, informing them of the inherent potential dangers.
Event coordinators planned to hold the festivities for a weekend they knew would be devoid of a Sacramento County ordinance prohibiting alcohol on the river, officials said.
In total, more than 50 assists were performed by Sacramento Metro Fire rescue teams, including water rescues and treatment for exhaustion, said Sac Metro Assistant Chief, Scott Cockrum.
Sac Metro rescue teams and volunteers were on hand throughout the day, patroling waters and handing out life jackets to all who came to float along the river.
Though the day was not marred by something truly tragic, Sacramento County Sheriff's units made a dozen arrests, including two for driving under the influence, said Sac Sheriff spokesman, Jason Ramos.
Statistics from the day will be compiled and presented to Sacramento County supervisors who will take the evidence into account for next year.
