Sheriff: Search for Missing Minnesota Canoers Now Recovery Mission
Wascot, WI (KROC-AM News)- A search for two canoers from southern Minnesota who have been missing since last month has now shifted into a recovery mission.
That’s according to a news release issued by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office in northern Wisconsin. The two canoers have been missing since October 28.
The case began when deputies responded to the report of a capsized canoe on the Minong Flowage, which is about 50 miles south of Superior, WI.
An updated news release identified the missing canoers as 26-year-old Ryan J. Busch and 27-year-old Andrew T. DeRock. Both men are from New Ulm.
The initial investigation indicates alcohol and weather conditions were not factors in causing the canoe to capsize. Officials say obstacles such as weather, cold water temperatures and natural foliage in the search area are hindering efforts.
Douglas County Sheriff Matt Izzard said search efforts began immediately after the capsized canoe was reported and have continued every day since. Search and recuse teams from Minnesota and Wisconsin and a private search organization have been taking part in the recovery effort.
Izzard says there’s no timeline for discontinuing the recovery effort. He says ice on the flowage will dictate the timeline and length of the search.
The parents of both men are thanking the Wascott community and their family and friends for the overwhelming support they have received during this time.
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