Missing Kayaker Found

Missing Kayaker Found The search for a missing kayaker came to a tragic end around 11:15 a.m. today, as search teams found his body in Lake Waccamaw. A team from the Wildlife Resources Commission using a large offshore patrol boat equipped with sonar found Erick Ross in the vicinity of the Sigmon Wildlife Landing on Canal Cove. 'We have told the family, and ask that everyone keep them in your prayers,' Sheriff Bill Rogers said. Ross, 25, was visiting the lake with his family from South Carolina, authorities said. He was reported missing around 4:45 p.m. Monday. The man's black kayak was found at one of the boat ramps, with his shoes, cap, personal floatation device and phone inside. He has been described as a participant in this weekend's Take the Lake personal fitness challenge. Both public boat ramps were closed Monday evening and boaters were asked to leave the lake as the search got underway. Whiteville and Columbus County drone teams were searching the area within minutes of the 911 call Monday. The search was suspended around 1 a.m. this morning, then picked back up at 7 a.m. Firefighters and water rescue teams from across the county were in the water before 6 p.m. Monday. Lake Waccamaw Police led search efforts on land, in the hopes that the victim had somehow made it safely ashore. Around 25 agencies assisted in the search, according to a press release from the town. Teams from New Hanover, Pender, Brunswick, Nash, Union and Anson sheriff's offices along with the Highway Patrol assisted. Brunswick County also sent the SABLE helicopter. The State Parks and Wildlife Resource Commission sent multiple boats, including a large WRC marine patrol boat whose sonar found the body just south of the Sigmon Boat Landing, in deep water well offshore. Columbus County Emergency Management and state Emergency Management maintained a command post at the boat landing off Canal Cove Road. 'On behalf of the Town of Lake Waccamaw, we extend our deepest sympathies to Erick's family and loved ones during this difficult and tragic time,' said Lake Emergency Management Director Chase Lancaster. 'We want to thank North Carolina State Parks, the Columbus County Sheriff's Office, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, and all of the other responding agencies for their dedication, response and assistance throughout the search.' 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult and tragic time,' said Mayor Greg Jacobs. 'We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking situation.' Rogers thanked all the agencies involved. 'This was not the result we wanted,' Rogers said, 'but everyone worked together very well, and so many turned out to help. We appreciate all of them. It's times like this when we have to work together for the family. 'It's a tragedy, especially to lose someone so young.' The area around the Wildlife landing was packed with first responders, and some were forced to park along Canal Cove Road. Other units were deployed from private driveways along the road. Jefferson Weaver is editor and publisher of Columbus County News. He can be reached at 910.234.6991, 910.632.4965 or by email at CCn.JWeaver@gmail.com.