Search Continues for Man Who Went Missing After Boat Capsized, 2 Others Survived

The Search Continues for Missing Man Following Boat Capsizing

Authorities are tirelessly searching for a man who went missing after a tragic incident where a boat carrying him, another adult, and a 2-year-old child capsized in an Alabama river over the weekend. The Spanish Fort Police Department disclosed that the event occurred on the evening of Saturday, February 15, on the Blakey River just north of the causeway. Tragically, all three individuals aboard the boat fell into the water as a result of the capsizing.

In the midst of this calamity, the adult male and the 2-year-old child managed to reach the shore safely, as confirmed by the Spanish Fort Police Department. However, the second adult male, identified as John DeJonge, 40, of Baldwin County according to family members, remains unaccounted for. John’s brother, David DeJonge, described him as a quiet and intelligent man who adored his two children.

Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber elaborated that the 17-foot John boat encountered engine issues while on the Blakey River. Subsequently, during attempts to rectify the engine problem, the boat tragically capsized, leading to all three individuals being submerged in the water. The father and the 2-year-old child displayed remarkable resilience by swimming back to shore with the boat as a flotation device and then signaling for help upon reaching the causeway.

Due to the perilous weather conditions, search operations were momentarily suspended but were eventually recommenced the following day. Various agencies, including the Spanish Fort Police Department, the Daphne Fire Department, North Baldwin Search and Rescue, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, collaborated in the search efforts to locate the missing man. The family of John DeJonge also reached out on social media, inviting individuals with boats to join the search at Meaher State Park.

The haunting thought of a loved one missing still looms large over the community as the search continues. Alysia DeJonge, John’s sister, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers during this challenging time. The Spanish Fort Police Department extended their thoughts and prayers to the family of the missing man, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

As the search intensifies, the community remains hopeful for a safe and swift resolution to this heart-wrenching ordeal. The valiant efforts of the authorities, coupled with the unwavering support of volunteers, exemplify the strength of unity in times of adversity. The persistence and determination exhibited in the search for the missing man serve as a beacon of hope amidst this dark chapter.