The search for two missing brothers in the Thermalito Afterbay has resulted in the discovery of a body. The Butte County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the body recovered on Tuesday morning was identified as 19-year-old Andruw Cornett. Andruw and his 17-year-old brother Wesley had been missing since December 14, when they were last seen attempting to navigate the waters during a duck hunting trip. The body was spotted by the sheriff's office pilot while conducting an aerial search over the northern side of the area, as reported by KCRA.
The search for the missing brothers commenced immediately following their disappearance, involving both law enforcement and civilian volunteers. Underwater vegetation has presented a challenge, limiting the search team's ability to thoroughly cover the area. Civilian diver Juan Heredia was among those assisting in the search efforts. A statement from the sheriff’s office noted that the recovery operation was briefly paused when a drone flew too close to the helicopter, forcing the pilot to land, as reported by CBS News Sacramento.
The sheriff's office has issued a warning regarding the use of drones in the search area, stating that it impedes their ability to safely conduct aerial searches. This interference hampers not only the search efforts but also puts the safety of the crew and the effectiveness of the operation at risk.
While some details of the search and recovery efforts have been shared. The Butte County Sheriff's Office has not yet provided any further updates on the search for Wesley. Search efforts continue as authorities work to locate him.
