Over a month and a half has passed since a kayaker disappeared on Jackson Lake.43-year-old Wesley Dopkins went missing in Grand Teton National Park in the middle of June. Park rangers are continuing their search efforts as part of ongoing field operations, with the hope of recovering his remains. Officials say that Dopkins is presumed dead.
Dopkins, from Minnesota, was last seen on June 15, kayaking on Jackson Lake with a friend. The two left Colter Bay paddling to reach Waterfalls Canyon on the west shore of the lake. But, around 2 p.m., Dopkins’ friend lost sight of him and due to high winds was unable to return to Colter Bay. The fellow kayaker instead landed at Leeks Marina, and reported the his missing friend.
Search teams found Dopkins’ kayak, paddle, and dry bag floating near Moose Island. He was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time he went missing. Dopkins was last seen wearing a long sleeve blue shirt, a red ball cap, and shorts.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Grand Teton National Park tip line at 1-888-653-0009 or the Teton Interagency Dispatch Center at (307) 739-3301. The family and park officials appreciate the public’s assistance in spreading the word and aiding the search efforts.
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