Two teen brothers, Wesley Cornett, 17, and Andruw Cornett, 19, went missing after one of their kayaks overturned during a duck hunting expedition in Northern California. On December 14th, Butte County Sheriff’s Office deputies, detectives, the Aviation and Marine Unit, along with Search and Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene. As of now, both brothers remain missing, and the search efforts are ongoing with the help of various law enforcement agencies and rescue teams. The California Rescue Dog Association (CARDA), San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Yuba County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, Marine Unit and Dive Team members, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, California Department of Fish and Wild Life, and CAL FIRE are all involved in the search. Despite the public's eagerness to assist, officials have requested that they do not call the dispatch center at this time. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office expressed their gratitude for the public's concern but emphasized that they have sufficient resources and assistance from other agencies. They shared a picture of the brothers and a video of the rescue operation, showing the teams on boats. ABC affiliate KRCR reported that the search has now shifted to a recovery operation, with sonar equipment being used to narrow down anomalies and further inspections being conducted with underwater ROVs and divers.

Northern California Duck Hunting Tragedy - Teen Brothers Missing

Initial Response and Missing Alert

On December 14th, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office received a missing persons alert regarding two duck hunters. One of the kayaks overturned, and the other brother swam into the water to help. This led to the initiation of a search operation involving multiple teams and agencies. The determination to find the missing brothers was evident as the search continued.

Involvement of Various Agencies

The rescue team is a collaborative effort involving the California Rescue Dog Association (CARDA), San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Yuba County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, Marine Unit and Dive Team members, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, California Department of Fish and Wild Life, and CAL FIRE. Each agency brings its expertise and resources to the search, increasing the chances of locating the missing brothers. The coordination among these agencies is crucial in ensuring a comprehensive search.

Shift to Recovery Operation

As the search progressed, it has now shifted to a recovery operation. Sonar equipment is being used to identify potential locations where the brothers may be. Underwater ROVs and divers are being deployed to further inspect these areas. The search teams are working tirelessly to bring the missing brothers home. The transition to a recovery operation indicates the seriousness of the situation and the need for a more targeted approach.