Unoccupied Kayak Discovered in Erie Canal Prompts Search and Investigation

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ROME, NY — The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help after an unoccupied kayak was found in the Erie Canal near South James Street and Muck Road in the City of Rome.

According to Sheriff Robert Maciol, deputies responded to the area after a passerby reported spotting the kayak. Upon arrival, officials located a single-person orange kayak near the center of the canal. A backpack and oars were also found nearby, with the oars marked with the initials "E.W.H."

Given the circumstances, the case was turned over to the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Unit and Forensic Identification Unit. Members of the OCSO Marine Patrol and Dive Team conducted an extensive search of the canal for a possible missing kayaker, but no individual was found. Rome Fire Department also deployed a drone equipped with thermal imaging during a nighttime search, which yielded negative results.

Authorities continue to investigate and are urging anyone with information to contact the Oneida County Sheriff's Criminal Investigations Unit at 315-765-2226.

Assisting agencies included the OCSO Marine Patrol Unit, OCSO Dive Team, Rome Police Department, Rome Fire Department, and Amcare Ambulance.