Hale County, AL – The search for a missing boater from Helena came to a tragic end Friday after authorities recovered the man’s body in the Black Warrior River. The discovery was made at approximately 12:06 p.m. on Nov. 21, roughly three miles south of the Lock 8 boat launch in Hale County, the same area where crews had focused their search throughout the week.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the victim—identified as 47-year-old Larry James of Helena—was located and brought to shore by search teams before he was pronounced deceased shortly afterward. Prior to Friday’s recovery, multiple agencies had been involved in the ongoing efforts to locate the missing boater following initial reports earlier in the week.
According to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division, a wide range of crews participated in the coordinated search operation. Those included ALEA’s Marine Patrol and Aviation Unit, Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries personnel, the Tuscaloosa County Fire and Rescue Dive Team, Hale County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), the Hale County Sheriff’s Office, and the Daphne Search and Rescue Team. Officials noted that several private citizens also volunteered to assist with the recovery effort.
The Black Warrior River, which runs through multiple central Alabama counties, has been the site of numerous search missions in recent years due to its strong currents and heavy recreational use. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as troopers with ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division continue to examine the circumstances surrounding James’s disappearance and death.
More information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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