CULLMAN COUNTY-On July 17 the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Marine Patrol Division issued a statement concerning a missing boater on Smith Lake. On Monday, July 20 ALEA Marine Patrol North District Assistant Commander issued this update:
From Sgt. Chad Pate, ALEA Marine Patrol Northern District Assistant Commander:
“The search for the missing boater on Smith Lake resumed this morning. Logan Fire & Rescue, Crane Hill Fire & Rescue, Cullman Co. S.O., Houston Co. Search & Rescue, Christian Aid Ministries Search & Rescue, Elite Detection K-9, ALEA Aviation, and ALEA Marine Patrol are all on scene assisting with the search today. Units are using side scan sonar, a towable submersible sonar, cadaver dogs, aerial assets, and dive teams to search the area.
The search has been difficult due to water depth, lake bottom conditions, and extreme heat. The search area goes up to approximately 140 feet with standing timber as well as cut timber on bottom. The search will continue today for as long as possible.
There will be no other updates today unless Mr. New is located.”
Senior Trooper Derek Campbell/Public Information Officer – Huntsville/Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
