Around 9:45pmCT on Saturday night, July 26, 2025, Russell County Search & Rescue responded to an urgent call involving three men fishing from a 16’ John boat near the river side of Wolf Creek Dam. While the Corps of Engineers were generating, the boat was pulled into turbulent water and capsized, sending all three men into frigid conditions.
A Search & Rescue member entered the water to assist one of the men into the rescue boat and was then transported to the bank to awaiting EMS personnel.
Thanks to their life jackets, the swift response, and nearby individuals, all three men were safely rescued. The Corps quickly halted generation to ensure a safer rescue operation for everyone involved. Two of the individuals were transported to Russell County Hospital with mild hypothermia and were released shortly thereafter.
After confirming all parties were safe and accounted for, the team launched two marine units to recover the boat and secure belongings still floating in the river.
Russell County Search & Rescue remains committed to the safety and well-being of Russell County’s citizens and visitors - and they’re incredibly grateful to the partners who make missions like this successful:
- Russell County Dispatch
- Russell County EMS
- Russell County Sheriff’s Office
- Russell county Emergency Management
- and every responder who played a role.
