VERNON, FL – The body of a missing teenager feared drowned has been recovered after a two-day recovery operation in and around Holmes Creek.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the boy who entered the water at around 2:50 pm on Sunday never resurfaced.
“Through the joint efforts of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Fish and Wildlife Dive team, the body of the missing 15-year-old swimmer has been located and recovered,” the department said. “Please refrain from coming to the area, as investigative efforts are still in progress. We ask that you keep the family of the deceased in your thoughts and prayers as they process this difficult outcome.”
Rescuers spent two full days searching the water for the missing teen, having to suspend operations each night, but showing up early each morning to continue their search. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Officers continued the search at first light Monday morning.
Rescuers used an underwater scanning sonar system and other bottom and side-scanning equipment. Water visibility in the creek was less than one foot, and divers had a difficult time navigating through the debris underwater.
“We ask that citizens please remain from attempting to bring boats in the area, as first responder personnel is operating in and out of the waterways near Vernon,” the department said during the search.