MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop G - 1226 W. Bus. 60/63, Willow Springs, MO 65793


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Jeff Kinder
(417) 469-3121, ext. 3735
G-07154
July 9, 2015

EMPHASIS: Missing Floaters Located In Ozark County

At 10:05 p.m. on July 6, 2015, Troop G Headquarters received a report of three adults and three children, who were floating in tubes on the North Fork of the White River in Ozark County and had failed to show up at their designated take out point. A search of the area was conducted by a trooper and a deputy of the Ozark County Sheriff’s Department. Foggy conditions made a search by boat impossible. At around 11 p.m., an Ozark County deputy located two adults at the trail head near Hammond Camp. They indicated the rest of the party was on a gravel bar near Rainbow Springs, so the trooper and deputy responded to that location. The nearest access point was over a quarter mile away, so the trooper and deputy made their way to the group by wading through the river, sometimes in chest deep water. The officers then carried the children back to safety.

Captain Mark G. Inman, commanding officer of Troop G said, “During the last few weeks, this type of scenario has played itself out several times in the Troop G area. Recent rains have caused area streams to remain at high levels. High water and weather conditions are factors to consider when planning a float trip or any outing on the river.”

Approximately 63 percent of Missouri fatal crash victims who are required to be restrained are NOT at the time of the traffic crash. The Patrol urges motorists to protect themselves and their passengers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Join us in supporting the Drive To Zero Highway Deaths. Watercraft operators should ensure that everyone in the vessel is wearing an approved life jacket. Click It 4 Life And Wear It!!
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