Fire and technical rescue crews responded to the Missisquoi River in Sheldon, Vermont, on July 6, 2026, after two kayakers overturned in powerful rapids below the Sheldon Paper Mill dam.

Sheldon Fire Department received the initial 911 call at approximately 4:30 p.m. after the two out-of-state kayakers encountered intense rapids shortly after portaging around the dam. One kayaker was able to free himself from the water and reach shore, while the second became stranded on a rock between sections of swift-moving water.

Sheldon firefighters established downstream safety positions while additional technical rescue resources were requested. The Colchester Technical Rescue Team responded to assist with the swiftwater operation.

Rescuers were able to get a throw bag to the stranded kayaker and provide him with a life jacket and helmet while preparing to bring him safely across the moving water. Crews then used a rope system to complete the rescue and bring the kayaker to shore.

Both kayakers were safely accounted for, and no injuries were reported.

The rescue involved coordinated efforts between Sheldon firefighters and Colchester technical rescue personnel in a challenging section of the Missisquoi River. Officials later urged recreational users to exercise caution around swift-moving water and to wear appropriate personal flotation equipment.