James R. Dawkins, 54, vanished after launching his 12-foot boat on the Alabama River at 5:30 a.m. on January 10.
At a Glance
- Dawkins was last seen near Shelton Landing in Autauga County with only a trolling motor
- His empty boat was discovered 92 miles downstream on January 14
- Multiple agencies are searching, but civilians are urged to stay away due to extreme winter weather
- Why it matters: A week-long search has turned up no sign of the missing boater, and dangerous conditions complicate rescue efforts
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reports that Dawkins had no contact with anyone after launching his vessel. His boat was located south of the Robert F. Henry Lock and Dam by the Selma-Dallas County Rescue Squad at 12:40 p.m. on January 14.
Search Expands After Boat Recovery
The discovery of the empty vessel shifted the focus of the search. ALEA stated that Marine Patrol Troopers and the Aviation Unit “are continuing search efforts, which have expanded greatly since the vessel location and recovery.”
Agencies assisting ALEA include:
- Elmore County Emergency Management Agency
- Elmore County Sheriff’s Office
- Autauga County Sheriff’s Office
- Millbrook Police Department
- Autauga County Search and Rescue
Authorities have asked residents not to conduct independent searches. “However, if you are on or near the Alabama River and notice anything unusual, please contact local authorities immediately,” ALEA advised.
News Of Los Angeles requested an update on January 17, but ALEA did not respond.
