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Body of paddleboarder who went missing on Keechelus Lake recovered

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The body of a paddleboarder who went missing in Keechelus Lake in the Snoqualmie Pass area of Kittitas County on May 22 was recovered Friday by searchers using a sonar drone, the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office announced.

The man was paddleboarding on Keechelus Lake when he lost his balance and fell into the water, according to the sheriff’s office. His wife called 911.

Personnel from the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office, Kittitas County Search and Rescue, Snoqualmie Pass Fire, and Eastside Fire and Rescue responded, but he was not found.

During the week, the King County Sheriff’s Office Marine and Dive Unit joined the search with an underwater sonar drone.

K-9s trained in detecting underwater drowning victims were also used to help narrow the search area.

On Friday, searchers using the sonar drone were able to locate the man’s body in almost 50 feet of 39-degree water.

“We mourn with (the man’s) family and ask everyone who uses the waterways of our county to recognize the serious hazards of cold water,” said Sheriff Clay Myers. “We’re also deeply grateful for the assistance of neighboring agencies and all the professionals and trained volunteers who gave their time and skill to bring (him) home to his family.”

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