TYBEE ISLAND, GA — January 24th — Tybee Island Fire Rescue arrived Saturday afternoon to a report of a missing kayaker whose vessel had taken on water near Tybee Creek. Rescue swimmers deployed the department's jet ski, SAR 1, and began a joint search with Marine Patrol and the United States Coast Guard.

Crews encountered difficult conditions such as frigid water, sustained 30 mph gusts, little visibility, high tide, and heavy surf. After a two-hour search, rescuers discovered a young man stuck in a marsh over a mile from the Alley 3 boat ramp. The person was waving a paddle to signal for aid. Rescue swimmers made contact and deployed a life-saving line to safely transport the kayaker and his vessel out of the swamp. EMS evaluated both the patient and the rescuers on the scene. There were no injuries recorded. Officials said the incident highlights the importance of preparation, proper equipment, and interagency coordination during water emergencies.