LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Crews are still searching for 16-year-old Jacob Stover, who went missing while kayaking over the weekend.
Louisville Metro Police Department wants to remind those looking for Stover to practice proper safety technique when searching near the Ohio River and in cold temperatures. LMPD issued the following statement in regards to the search:
"Today LMPD, along with assisting agencies, is continuing the search for missing kayaker Jacob Stover. We are utilizing all resources available. Although we greatly appreciate the willingness of the public to assist in our efforts, we are very concerned for their safety. Conditions such as terrain and cold temperatures (both air and water) along with the strong current of the river are very difficult to navigate. We understand that despite potential hazardous conditions, individuals may continue the efforts, we strongly urge anyone doing so to wear life jackets and safety vests for visibility."
A spokesperson for the family released a statement echoing the concern for the safety of volunteers.
"We are continuing our efforts to search the river today with the help of family and friends while being mindful of the cautions for safety from law enforcement. We are deeply grateful to the volunteers with search and rescue boats who have generously joined us in this search.
We are grieving Jake’s disappearance and overwhelmed by the love and support of our community during this crippling sadness. Thank you for the hope and prayers for our family."
The 16-year-old was last seen wearing a black winter coat, black winter pants, blue beanie and black boots. Jacob is described as 5'9" tall and 140 pounds with brown eyes and brown hair.
Jacob's family says he got up early Sunday and left to go kayaking. They thought he was fishing at his favorite lake, but after tracking his phone on Life 360, they discovered he was on the Ohio River. His phone went silent about 11 a.m. on Sunday near the Falls of the Ohio.
Wendy Treinen, a spokeswoman for the family, said there were approximately 40-50 volunteers out searching on Tuesday.
"There are a lot of people out here searching that love and support this family, and that will continue until just before dark today," she said.
She cautioned that the search involved moving through areas with unstable ground and a lot of driftwood.
"With the advisory, this is not a safe effort," she said. "The water is freezing and the shoreline is quite unstable we are especially grateful to all the teenagers that want to come out and help, but we ask them at this time, we're really concerned about their safety and we ask that they not join the search right now because of those safety concerns."
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