The community of Sand Point is in shock as emergency responders continue searching for a teen who went missing after falling out of a canoe in rough waters earlier this week, officials said Thursday.
The incident occurred Wednesday evening when a group of family members and friends were paddling near Sand Point Harbor. According to local authorities, a 16-year-old youth lost balance and fell from the canoe into the cold, choppy waters. Despite quick rescue efforts, the teen was not located and is currently listed as missing.
The Aleutians East Borough Search and Rescue Team, along with the U.S. Coast Guard, have been coordinating the search, deploying boats and aircraft to scour the area where the teen was last seen. Officials emphasized that extreme weather and sea conditions have complicated the search operations.
“We are doing everything we can to locate the missing teen and are asking anyone with information to come forward,” said a spokesperson for the borough’s emergency services. “Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.”
Friends and residents in Sand Point gathered at the harbor Thursday morning, offering support to the family and watching as search crews continued their efforts. Many described the teen as an active member of the community, well known among peers and adults alike.
Authorities are urging people to steer clear of the search operations to ensure crew safety and minimize interference. They also cautioned local boaters and residents to exercise extra care in and around the water, especially given changing weather conditions.
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The search is ongoing, and no new updates have been released as efforts continue into Thursday afternoon. Anyone with potential information is asked to contact local emergency services or the Coast Guard.
