What began as a search-and-rescue operation for a missing 21-year-old kayaker on the Allegheny River has now turned into a recovery effort, as hazardous conditions continue to hamper rescue crews.

Authorities received a PEMA alert at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday reporting a capsized kayak near Tidioute. Emergency responders, including local fire departments, Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and other agencies, were immediately dispatched to the scene.

Despite a coordinated and extensive search effort, no sign of the missing kayaker has been found. Officials have confirmed that the kayaker was not wearing a life jacket, further heightening concerns.

The search operation faced significant challenges due to the river’s icy conditions and fast-moving currents. According to Tidioute Volunteer Fire Chief Kenny Mack, nearly 100 first responders and volunteers participated in the search effort, scouring both the riverbanks and the water itself.

“We had nearly 100 volunteers and workers out on the water and along the shore,” Mack stated. “Crews from Tionesta VFD, Hickory VFD, Glade Township’s Swift Water Rescue Team, Pennsylvania State Police, the Game Commission, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission were all doing their best.”

Search boats were launched from both the Bonnie Brae and Buckaloons boat ramps, but the difficult river conditions complicated the effort.

“There was anywhere from 10 to 50 feet of ice in some areas, and the current was moving fast, making it difficult for crews to navigate the river,” Mack explained. “These conditions not only made it tough to search but also put our rescue teams at risk.”

In an effort to locate the missing kayaker, authorities deployed a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter equipped with heat sensors, scanning the area for any signs of life. However, the search came up empty.

With deteriorating weather conditions and no signs of the missing man, officials made the difficult decision to suspend active search efforts at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The mission has now shifted from rescue to recovery.

“At this point, based on the conditions and the time that has passed, we have to move forward as a recovery effort rather than a rescue,” said Captain James Smolko of the Northwest Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the missing kayaker, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Officials urge residents and boaters in the area to remain vigilant and report any possible sightings or relevant information to local authorities.