Missing Person in Paw Paw River

DATE AND TIME OF INCIDENT: 19:44 on 2/27/18

TYPE OF INCIDENT:  Missing Person   / Search             

LOCATION OF INCIDENT:  Paw Paw River near 4265 R. Smith Street, Watervliet                   

AGENCIES INVOLVED:

Berrien County Sheriff’s Office

Coloma Twp Police

Watervliet Police

MSP

Watervliet FD

N. Berrien FD

Medic One

NARRATIVE:

Berrien County Public Safety Commination Center received a 911 call at 19:44 on 2/27/18 regarding a missing kayaker in the Paw Paw River.  Emergency responders were directed to the Paw Paw River in Watervliet Township. 

Three individuals were kayaking on the Paw Paw River near 4265 R. Smith Street in Watervliet when two of the kayaks struck a log in the river.  One individual swam to shore and the second individual is currently missing.  The missing individual is a 35 year old male from Niles.

The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team is currently on scene conducting a search.  An incident command center has been opened near the scene.

More information will be provided once it becomes available.

*UPDATE*

First Responders continue to search the Paw Paw River in Watervliet Township for a missing kayaker.  Cory Wright (35) Niles was reported missing on 19:44 on 2/27/18.

Lt. Martin Kurtz advises that he is leading the search today.  The water level is higher and the water is swift.  Lt. Kurtz said that the area they are searching ranges from 3-12 feet. 

More information will be provided when it becomes available.