Overturned Kayak Triggers 3-Hour River Search Near Libertyville

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — Fire crews conducted an extensive water rescue search along the Des Plaines River Sunday morning after an overturned kayak was reported near the Oak Spring Road Bridge, officials said.

The Libertyville Fire Department responded at about 11 a.m. after a kayaker traveling south on the river called 911 and reported spotting a partially submerged kayak stuck on branches in the water, according to a news release.

When crews arrived, the kayak was found overturned with no one visible nearby, prompting a swift water rescue response as a precaution while it was initially unclear whether anyone was in the water. Search teams from Libertyville and assisting agencies conducted an extensive sweep of the river and surrounding areas for approximately three hours.

Despite the search effort, no individuals were located, and the operation was eventually suspended by command, authorities said.