Media update re missing swimmer in Waikato river

Yesterday police and the Fire Service conducted land searches of the East and West banks of the Waikato River after a young man went missing in the river.

He is presumed drowned after family saw him slip below the surface while another man was attempting to rescue him.

During the evening the Fire Service provided outstanding support to police using their thermal imaging equipment from a boat in case the missing man was on the rivers edge exhausted or unconscious.

Police conducted searches on the river and along its banks in to the early hours of the morning and again at first light.

A maritime unit was deployed again early this morning and is currently searching the river.

Indications are that the young man was not a strong swimmer.

He tried to cross the river and when he got into difficulty he went under despite the rescue attempts.

This is a tragedy for the family who were enjoying some recreation time at the river.

It is a timely reminder that the Waikato River has a strong current and many snags below the surface.

Swimmers need to ensure they do not venture in to activities outside their capabilities.

The Waikato River is sacred to Iwi, who have been advised of this sad event.

ENDS

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