Kayaker Found Dead After Middlesex Rescue Effort
Photo by Middlesex Hose CompanyFire and rescue crews deploy boats and dive teams during a coordinated water search operation.
Photo by Middlesex Hose CompanyGuthrie Air Medical on scene to assist with emergency response efforts during the incident.
Photo by Middlesex Hose CompanyMiddlesex Valley Volunteer Ambulance stands by during the multi-agency water rescue response.
Photo by Middlesex Hose CompanyFire department boats conduct coordinated search efforts on the water alongside mutual aid partners.
October 16, 2025 — A kayaking outing turned tragic Thursday morning when emergency crews responded to reports of a kayaker in distress on a local waterway.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., the Middlesex Fire Department was dispatched to the scene but was unable to locate the individual upon arrival. A large-scale search operation was quickly launched, with assistance from the Branchport–Keuka Park Fire Department Dive Team and later the Ontario County Dive Team.
After extensive efforts by multiple responding agencies, the individual was found deceased and safely recovered.
The Middlesex Fire Department extended heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family and friends, and expressed appreciation for the teamwork and professionalism shown by all assisting agencies. All units were cleared from the scene by approximately 5:00 p.m.
Responding agencies:
Middlesex Fire Department, Middlesex Ambulance, Medic 62, Rushville Fire Department, Branchport–Keuka Park Fire Department (Dive Team), Cheshire Fire Boat, Canandaigua Fire Boat, Yates County Sheriff’s Department, Ontario County Sheriff’s Department, Ontario County Office of Emergency Management, Yates County Office of Emergency Management, and Guthrie Air Medical.
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