‘Absolutely treacherous’: Search continues for teen swept by Merced Co. river
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MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – The search continues for a 17-year-old who was swept away in a river in Merced County.
The sheriff’s office says recovery efforts are underway and are reminding the community of water safety.
Deputies say this river- the Merced River in McConnell State Park is where a 17-year-old was swept away over the weekend.
The department said the San Joaquin River and Merced River are closed in Merced County.
Deputies say a teenager went missing Saturday, after going kayaking in the river. They say dive crews have been searching since then.
“We guided our dive team in and it was treacherous,” said Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke. “Absolutely treacherous. Folks, stay out of the water.”
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Sheriff Warnke said he is concerned for the community’s safety, so he decided to close both Merced and the San Joaquin rivers.
“We keep experiencing tragedy after tragedy after tragedy,” said Sheriff Warnke. “And I just have to make a decision that, okay, we’ve got to protect the entire interest of all those involved and we just don’t want it to happen.”
Some friends of the apparent victim did not want to be on camera but said they are praying and hoping for his safe return.
Sheriff Warnke says as circumstances allow, the department will continue their efforts in finding the missing teenager.
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“I’ve got an airplane up,” said Sheriff Warnke. “We’ve got experienced spotters and stuff. They’re going to run through the airplane and see if they find anything.”
Officials say both rivers will be closed until further notice. As for those rivers that are open at this time, they advise to have a life vest ready to go.
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