Helicopters have been deployed to continue the search for a missing man at Lake Waccamaw.
The 25 year old was kayaking somewhere between Dale’s Seafood and the 2500 block of Canal Cove when he went missing. He was paddling a black kayak. Crews have been on the water and land since just after 5 p.m. multiple drone teams have also been deployed, but were grounded when a helicopter equipped with forward looking infrared radar (FLIR) came on scene.
The town of Lake Waccamaw urged private drone operators to avoid using their equipment around the lake while emergency drones and helicopters are deployed. If a drone is spotted during a helicopter flight, the helicopter must stay grounded to avoid a possible collision. It is against federal law to operate a drone in an area where an emergency response is underway.
Multiple agencies from Columbus and Brunswick County are assisting with the search, including deputies, search and rescue personnel, boats, helicopters, and a man-tracking team, according to the sheriff’s office.
The State Parks, Wildlife Resources Commission, Lake Waccamaw Fire and Rescue, Whiteville Drone Team and water rescue teams from across the region are assisting, along with the Sheriff’s Office dive team.
“We ask our community to please join us in prayer for the missing individual and their family during this difficult time, as well as for all of the first responders taking part in this search,” Sheriff Bill Rogers said in a press release. “Please pray for their safety, strength, and perseverance as they continue working to locate the missing individual.”
Lake Waccamaw Police Chief Corey Finch asked that anyone with cameras on their house or pier that point towards the lake in the area between the Sailing Club and the boat ramp please contact LWPD. Col or text 910.840.7143 or 910.770.3574 by call or text message.
