Missing Person Safely Located Near the Gasconade River

Press Release
July 28, 2025

On July 26, 2025, the Maries County Communication Center received a report of a missing person on the Gasconade River. The reporting party advised that their group had launched together but became separated shortly before reaching a private takeout point.

Emergency response agencies, including the Vienna Fire Department, Vichy Fire Department, Maries-Osage Ambulance District, Phelps Air Helicopter, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Maries County Sheriff's Office, were notified and responded promptly to the area. Multiple searches were conducted, including efforts by local fire departments utilizing personally owned watercraft to search the river.

After an extensive search, the missing female was safely located in a wooded area. Though tired and affected by the day's heat, she was otherwise unharmed.

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the responding agencies for their quick response and dedicated efforts. This successful outcome highlights the strength and effectiveness of a team-oriented approach to emergency response.

Sheriff Mark Morgan
Maries County Sheriff's Office