Emergency personnel from multiple agencies continue their coordinated search efforts for a missing kayaker on Lake Chatuge following an incident Tuesday evening.
The individual has been identified as Michael Picklesimer of Blairsville, Georgia. According to preliminary information, Picklesimer was kayaking on Lake Chatuge with friends when he reportedly went underwater and did not resurface.
A 911 call was received at approximately 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, prompting an immediate response from numerous local, county, and state emergency agencies. Emergency crews quickly established operations near the Clay County Recreation Department and began an extensive search of the area.
Throughout the evening, responders utilized a variety of resources, including drones, specialized dive teams, sonar equipment, and infrared technology in an effort to locate Picklesimer. Despite the coordinated efforts and deployment of available resources, Picklesimer had not been recovered as of press time.
Search operations were suspended shortly before midnight due to darkness and challenging conditions. Officials have indicated that search efforts will continue when daylight returns, with crews resuming operations in hopes of locating Picklesimer.
Emergency officials are asking the public to avoid the Clay County Recreation Department area and surrounding portions of Lake Chatuge while search operations remain active. Limiting traffic and maintaining a safe distance from search areas will allow first responders to conduct their work as efficiently and safely as possible.
Officials continue to keep Mr. Picklesimer’s family, friends, and loved ones in their thoughts during this difficult time.
At the time of publication, this is all the information available. The Clay County Progress will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they are released by officials. Readers are encouraged to follow the Clay County Progress on Facebook or website: claycountyprogress.com for real-time updates and the latest information regarding this ongoing search effort.