Schuylkill County, PA – Pennsylvania State Police are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of a local man who went missing after a late-night fishing trip near Girardsville, and authorities are again asking the public for help.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Troop L in Frackville, 43-year-old Donald George “DJ” Hamaker was last seen in the early morning hours of May 28, 2024, Tuesday, at a strip mining pit known locally as the “HA” hole in Girardsville. Investigators say Hamaker arrived at the location around 3 a.m. with two friends to fish.
Police noted the mining pit is supposed to be closed, but it is frequently used by residents in the area for fishing and swimming.
Later that same day, Hamaker’s kayak was discovered overturned in the pit. According to police, his fishing poles were still tied to the kayak, but his bait was found on shore, raising concern about what may have happened. Multiple searches of the area were conducted, but no additional signs of Hamaker were located.
Hamaker remains missing. Police also confirmed there was a delay in reporting him missing, with the official report not made until approximately 2:16 p.m. on May 28.
The case remains active and unsolved. Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen Hamaker, was in the area that morning, or has any information — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Frackville at 570-874-5300, call PSP Tips Toll Free at 1-800-472-8477, or submit a tip online through the Pennsylvania State Police tips system. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward, and all information can be provided confidentially.
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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