Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

DNR Rescues Three Missing Tubers From Muskegon River

8/12/2026

47 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Michigan DNR Rescues

Michigan DNR officers and police rescued Jazmin Hock, Sarah Vida and Kayden Kovalcik on the Muskegon River on Aug. 7 at 4:36 p.m. at Mill Iron Boat Launch.
The trio launched from Maple Island Boat Launch on Aug. 4 and were reported missing on Aug. 5, prompting use of boats, helicopters, drones, a K-9 unit and footprint tracking.
Kayden Kovalcik was released while Jazmin Hock and Sarah Vida stayed for infection and dehydration.

Summary

Investigators Recover Tubes

Investigators recovered the inflatable tubes on Thursday, confirming the trio’s river route.
The three tubers left their car at the launch without telling anyone and had no return plan.
The trio thought they were walking toward their car when they entered the woods, showing disorientation.
The DNR noted that all three were hospitalized for injuries and that the rescue showed training but the lack of a return plan hampered search.

History

Historical Context

In 1972 Governor William Milliken added a Search-and-Rescue unit to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which had been organized as a state agency in 1921. The program began with a $2.5 million budget and 150 volunteers, launching its first helicopter rescue in 1974. Today DNR officers work with the U.S. Coast Guard and Muskegon police using drones, helicopters and K-9 teams.

1 of 3

Michigan DNR Rescues

Michigan DNR officers and police rescued Jazmin Hock, Sarah Vida and Kayden Kovalcik on the Muskegon River on Aug. 7 at 4:36 p.m. at Mill Iron Boat Launch.
The trio launched from Maple Island Boat Launch on Aug. 4 and were reported missing on Aug. 5, prompting use of boats, helicopters, drones, a K-9 unit and footprint tracking.
Kayden Kovalcik was released while Jazmin Hock and Sarah Vida stayed for infection and dehydration.

1 / 3