Man, 70, Goes Rafting Down River. Friend Calls 911 When He Fails to Show Up at Meeting Point Hours Later

Authorities in California are intensifying their efforts to locate Richard Daly, a 70-year-old man who vanished while kayaking on the Merced River. Last seen on February 22nd, Daly had planned to float down the river but did not return as expected, prompting concerns for his safety.

Daly was dropped off near the Merced River Bridge by a companion at approximately 10 a.m. on the day he went missing. The pair had arranged to meet at Shaffer Bridge four hours later. When the designated meeting time came and went without Daly’s arrival, his friend reported him missing, sparking an immediate response from local law enforcement.

Upon receiving the call, the Merced County Sheriff’s Office dispatched deputies to the area. They quickly gathered information about Daly’s last known whereabouts and physical description, which includes long grey hair, a grey beard, and blue eyes. He is approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 155 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a grey and green jacket equipped with a black hood, along with a black hat.

A variety of search efforts have been initiated in the hope of finding Daly. These include the deployment of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) as well as a helicopter to survey the river’s expansive area. The Merced River is known for its 135-mile flow, originating from the southern section of Yosemite National Park before converging with the San Joaquin River.

Despite these intensive search efforts, authorities reported that as of now, Daly has not been found. The Merced County Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that the search for him is ongoing and remains a priority. Their efforts reflect a commitment to locating the missing man and providing closure to his family and friends.

In the meantime, the authorities have provided a detailed description of Daly, emphasising the need for public assistance. Residents and visitors in the area are urged to keep an eye out for any signs of Daly, especially individuals who may have been in the vicinity of the Merced River during the time he went missing.

Anyone who may have helpful information is being encouraged to reach out to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at 209-385-7445, or to contact emergency services by dialling 911. Community involvement could be crucial in this case, and any tips or sightings could potentially lead to a breakthrough in locating Daly.

As the search continues, the concern for Daly’s wellbeing grows. Friends and family are anxiously awaiting news and hoping for a safe return. The case has drawn attention from the local community and beyond, highlighting the challenges and dangers that can arise during outdoor activities, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

As updates emerge from the ongoing search efforts, local authorities remain committed to providing timely information to the public. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety precautions when embarking on outdoor recreational pursuits, especially in areas with unpredictable conditions like rivers.