Authorities in Wisconsin have discovered an empty kayak belonging to a fisherman who went missing on Lake Butte Des Morts over the weekend. Michael Iriarte, 41, was last seen on Sunday afternoon when he launched his kayak in Sammers Bay for a fishing trip near Terrell’s Island. Concerned for his safety, Iriarte’s family reported his absence to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office later that evening.
A search operation was immediately initiated, with assistance from the Omro police and fire departments, as well as a warden from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and other first responders. Drones were utilized to cover a wide area encompassing Terrell’s Island, Sammers Bay, and Spring Brook. However, despite several hours of search efforts, the operation was suspended on Sunday night as all available resources were exhausted.
On Monday morning, the search resumed with boats and a plane, while ground teams combed the coastline on foot. The authorities confirmed the discovery of Iriarte’s kayak just before 1:30 p.m. However, Iriarte himself has not yet been located. The finding of the kayak has left community members, like witness Bill Martin, feeling deeply concerned. Martin described his “gut-wrenching feeling” upon watching the kayak being pulled out of the water and expressed sympathy for Iriarte’s family during this difficult time.
Authorities have released a description of Iriarte’s appearance at the time of his disappearance, including a blue and gray life jacket, a dark blue jacket, dark-colored pants, brown boots, a face mask, and a hat. They are urging anyone with information about Iriarte’s whereabouts to contact the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office or call 911.
The search for Iriarte serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by individuals engaging in recreational activities on bodies of water. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for a positive outcome and the safe return of Michael Iriarte.
