Fire department boat capsizes during search for missing kayaker

DELAWARE COUNTY, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) - A rescue crew ran into problems of its own while searching for a missing kayaker in Alum Creek.

One of the boats began taking on water and as crew members tried to get to shore, it proved too much and the boat began capsizing. The crew on board could be seen jumping into the water, then rolling the boat to climb on top of it.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources officials say it was a Genoa Township Fire Department boat that capsized. Everyone on board is OK.

Crews were back out on the water early Tuesday morning, looking for the man who went missing while out on the water for Memorial Day.

ODNR and area search teams joined the Columbus Police Dive Team to search for the man Tuesday.

Witnesses say problems started around 6 p.m. Monday, when a woman began taking on water in her kayak. Her friend, in another kayak, tried helping her back to shore, but then went underwater and disappeared.

Searchers were called in and used sonar but were unable to find him. The search was called off after sunset Monday.

So far this season, the state says there have been two boating deaths at state parks. ODNR says it doesn't appear that life jackets were in use.