The Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Madison Fire Department have confirmed the recovery of the body of a missing boater from a June 21 capsizing incident on the Mississippi River. The individual’s remains were located late Sunday morning near the Wever area.
According to a joint statement issued by Sheriff Elliott Vandenberg and Fire Chief Chad Hannum, the discovery was made around 10:15 a.m. on June 23 as part of an extensive search effort that spanned multiple days. The identity of the individual has been confirmed, and next of kin have been notified. Out of respect for the family’s wishes, authorities are withholding the individual’s name at this time.
The recovery concludes a multi-agency search operation that began the evening of June 21 after reports of a capsized boat came in. The operation involved the use of drones, boats, and K9 units. Sheriff Vandenberg and Chief Hannum expressed deep gratitude to the responding agencies, volunteers, and family members who assisted in the search.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the individual during this difficult time,” the officials said. No further information will be released at this time out of respect for the family’s privacy.