The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has confirmed one fatality after a Kayaking trip turned into a nightmare.

 

 

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency 3 Kayakers took to the water on Richland Creek near Back Valley Road in Rhea County for a point to point trip in a part of the stream known for white water paddling after heavy rains.

While Kayaking a 31 year old man from Hamilton County became trapped under a log where the other two with him attempted to rescue the man, but was only able to recover the kayak.

The Rhea County Sheriff’s Office received the call of the flipped kayaker where the TWRA along with the Rhea County Emergency Management and Tennessee State Parks all dispatched to the scene to assist with recovery.

With the fast moving waters as well as deep water holes of eight to ten feet, and surrounding terrain made recovery efforts challenging for crews that confirmed recovering the body of the flipped kayaker who was wearing a life jacket.

At this time no further details have been released, and the identity of the deceased is being withheld until the next of kin is notified.

Photo Credit: Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.