US Coast Guard searches for missing kayaker on Detroit River

Lina PortmanMay 26, 2024

0 1 minute read

FOX 2 (WJBK) – The U.S. Coast Guard spent Sunday searching for a missing 63-year-old man on the Detroit River. After resuming the search at first light at 11 a.m. Monday, a Coast Guard official said it had been called off and there were no plans to resume.

James Kuntz was on the water in his red kayak when he was reported missing Sunday. He was seen Friday at the Detroit Yacht Club wearing a Hawaiian shirt.

The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Detroit issued urgent maritime information on Sunday. A small boat from Coast Guard Station Belle Isle and a helicopter crew were used in the search.

“This morning we did the first flight search at 8 a.m. and we searched until lunchtime,” said Petty Officer Karlie Milliken. “If there is any information on this missing person, all you need to do is contact the Coast Guard or Station Belle Isle.”

Coast Guard members admit searches can be emotionally difficult

“There are a lot of emotions involved,” Milliken said. “I've been doing this for almost 9 years. When that alarm goes off, there's a lot of emotion that represents a human life and that's why we're here to save lives.”

Anyone with information that could assist in search efforts should contact Sector Detroit at 313-568-9560.

A public Facebook post regarding missing kayaker James Kuntz.

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A public Facebook post regarding missing kayaker James Kuntz.

As the summer months approach and people prepare for boating and other water activities, the Coast Guard receives this warning.

“Our motto is always ready. I think people should always be ready to have their life jacket, their fire extinguisher folder, a flotation plan, and that's pointing out where you're going and letting someone know when you come back,” she said. said. “So if something happens, they can call us and we can get them back to their families.”